There are two types of body armor – soft body armor, which is used in regular bullet and stab proof vests, and hard armor, which is rigid, reinforced body armor, and is used in high risk situations by police tactical units and combat soldiers.

A piece of body armor will traditionally be made up of two sections – the outer carrier, and the soft armor inner protective panels. It is important to remember that a carrier without any type of protective panels contained within it will not provide any protection against ballistic, stab or spike attacks.

The outer carrier can be made from a range of materials, and can be available in a range of colors, depending on the users requirements. The soft armor protective panels that are placed within the carrier will provide the protection offered by the body armor, and are normally light weight and flexible. These protective panels are available in a range of levels, and can be designed to defeat a variety of threats.

When a higher level of protection is required then hard armor can also be used in addition to the normal soft armor panels. Hard armor is available in a range of sizes, and can be worn in front of soft armor in specially made pockets on the outer carrier, or in separate hard armor carriers.

A Brief History Of Body Armor

There have been many different forms of body armor in use throughout history. The ancient Greeks used body armor to protect their soldiers, as did the Roman Legions, with examples of their body armor being found that date back to as early as 1400 BC. Around the year 500 BC chain-mail body armor was invented, which provided the wearer with a higher level of protection against attack than previous types of body armor. Made from thousands of iron rings that were linked together, it created a flexible, mesh like barrier that provided a high level of protection against weapons such as spears and swords. It was highly effective against the weapons of the era, but over time chain-mail was improved by adding metal armor plates to provide a higher level of protection for vulnerable parts of the body. Gradually these pieces of plate armor became bigger and more effective, and eventually replaced chain-mail as the main type of body armor that was used by armies around the world.

The introduction of firearms led to developments in the production of body armor, as plate armor was ineffective against high velocity projectiles. This led to the development of heavy duty types of plate armor, which provided a higher level of protection for the wearer, but was also heavier and more restrictive than earlier types of body armor The use of plate armor declined during the 18^th century, as the development in firearms again meant that only the most expensive and heavy types of body armor could provide reliable protection against them. However during the early 20^th century some types of plate armor became popular again with many countries, especially as it proved effective at stopping pieces of shrapnel that often proved deadly on the battlefield. Several countries used different forms of plate armor in both World War I and II, and traditional types of plate armor were worn by U.S. Foot soldiers as late as the Korean and Vietnamese wars.

The biggest development for body armor was in the late 1960′s, when DuPont™ began development of their para-aramid fiber Kevlar®. Lightweight and incredibly strong, Kevlar® allowed manufacturers to develop personal types of body armor that could be worn comfortably for long periods of time, and that also provided protection that could not be matched by any previous forms of body armor Over time other companies also developed their own types of body armor using a variety of revolutionary materials, meaning that body armor become both widely available and also affordable for the first time in history.

Body armor was traditionally used to protect soldiers and military personnel, however the last 25 years has seen an increase in the use of body armor to provide protection for police officers, security guards, door supervisors, ship crew and many others. The increase in gun and knife crime around the world means the use of body armor is now essential in many industries, and rapid developments in body armor means it can now provide a high level of protection against a broad range of day to day threats.

The introduction of lightweight personal body armor means that it’s now commonplace in many industries that previously would not have used body armor For example the increase in sea piracy has led to many shipping companies purchasing pieces of body armor for their crew members, in an effort to provide them with protection against the increased threats that they now face.

Body Armor Designs

Bullet and stab proof vests are generally made to be either covert or overt. A covert bullet proof vest is designed to be worn under clothes, and will often come in light colors They are normally thinner than overt types of bullet proof vests, as they are designed to be invisible when worn under clothes. Overt designs of bullet proof vests are made to be worn over clothes, and are normally produced in dark colors Generally they are made from rugged, hard wearing materials, and will often feature pockets and straps that can be used by the wearer.

It should also be noted that some bullet proof vests can be worn under or over clothes, these are known as covert / overt vests.

The vest carriers of bullet proof vests are designed in a wide range of styles, and are often customized for different uses. For example ambulance staff will have body armor in high visibility covers, and military personnel will have additional neck, groin and arm protection attached to their bullet proof vests. The broad range of covers and accessories available means bullet proof vests can be designed to almost any specification required.

Protection Levels

The protection standards used for body armor will vary from country to country, with many having their own specific tests and standards. However the tests performed by the American NIJ (National Institute of Justice) and the UK HOSDB (Home Office Scientific Development Branch) are considered to be the model standards for body armor around the world, and most countries will recognize the protection levels offered by a piece of body armor that is certified by either of these agencies.

The NIJ are considered to be the industry leaders in ballistic testing methods for body armor, and the HOSDB’s stab and spike tests are thought to be the worlds best. The NIJ and the HOSDB work in conjunction with each other on their testing methods, and a piece of body armor that passes NIJ standards will also pass the equivalent HOSDB standard.

Body armor is designed to protect against 3 broad types of threats – bullet, stab and spike. The protection offered by a piece of body armor will depend on how it is designed. For example some pieces of body armor will provide protection from just ballistic threats, while others will provide protection against bullet and stab attacks, or even bullet, stab and spike based threats.

Each piece of body armor will be clearly labeled with the protection that it provides. The higher the number on the protection, the higher the level of protection it will offer. For example a bullet proof vest that has NIJ Level IIIa protection will provide a higher level of protection than a bullet proof vest with NIJ Level II protection . Please see our protection levels section for more details.

Body Armor Sizing

Body armor comes in a full range of sizes, from small to 5XL. The larger the size, the wider the protective panels of the bullet proof vest will be. Body armor is also designed in different lengths – short, regular and long. A normal piece of body armor is designed to protect only the wearers vital organs, and should reach to the navel area. We recommend that anyone under 5’5 orders a short vest, between 5’6 and 5’11 a regular length vest, and over 6′ a long vest.

Body armor is made in the same way as normal clothing when it comes to sizing. For example a 5’10 man with a 38-40 inch chest and 32-34 inch waist will wear a medium t-shirt, and also a medium, regular length bullet proof vest.

How Does Body Armor Work?

Bullet proof vests

Bullet proof vests are designed to stop a bullet from penetrating them and causing harm to the wearer. They are made up a many layers of incredibly strong fibers, which when hit act as a net that essentially catches the bullet, and prevents it from traveling any further. Each layer twists as the bullet passes through, creating a stronger barrier and slowing the bullet until it comes to a complete stop. This process deforms the bullet, flattening it into a dish shape, and the force of the impact is spread over a large portion of the bullet proof vest.

Obviously the impact of a bullet is massive, and while the bullet proof vest will stop the penetration of the bullet, both the bullet proof vest and the wearer will still absorb the bullets energy. The impact of the bullet may be enough to cause what is known as “blunt force trauma” to the wearer at the impact point. As a bullet proof vest is not solid the bullet will not instantly be stopped by it, it will travel through the vest but not actually penetrate it completely. This means the wearer will still feel the impact of the bullet on their body, and while the blunt force trauma of the bullet will undoubtedly be painful, it should also not be life threatening

Bullet proof vests come in several levels of protection, and are designed to resist most common law and medium energy handgun rounds. If the wearer requires protection against rifle rounds then rigid, hard armor can also be used in conjunction with their bullet proof vest. Hard armor is generally made from ceramics, metal or a combination of both, and are worn in front of the panels on the bullet proof vest. However these plates tend to be heavy and bulky, and so they are generally used only when required in high risk situations.

It is very important to remember that a bullet proof vest is only bullet proof when it contains ballistic panels. A bullet proof vest without ballistic panels is simply a vest, the outer vest cover does not provide any ballistic protection on its own.

The ballistic panels themselves are made in different ways, depending on the individual manufacturer. Some may use a single type of material such as DuPont™ Kevlar®, whilst others may use multiple materials in their construction. The more protection a bullet proof vest offers, the more it will weigh. This is because it will contain more layers of protective material, and some manufacturers will add layers of non-ballistic materials in order to provide additional blunt trauma protection. Because of the different methods of construction used by different manufacturers it is impossible to compare individual ballistic plates, however it is important to note that whilst they may be constructed differently, they all need to pass the same safety checks before they can be sold.

Stab and spike proof vests

A traditional bullet proof vest will provide little to no resistance to an attack from a knife or stabbing instrument, as the fibers that are designed to “catch” the bullet can not disperse the energy of a concentrated stab or spike attack.

Stab and spike proof vests are constructed differently to bullet proof vests, in order to offer resistance to these types of attack. A knife tip will penetrate fabric, which then allows the rest of the cutting surface to rip through the material. A pointed weapon, such as a needle or syringe, will not actually damage the material, rather the point will push through the weave of the fabric and allow the rest of it to follow.

Stab and spike proof vests are made up of materials with a very tight laminated weave, as this prevents threats from piercing the fabric and causing damage. Stab and spike proof vests can be made from tightly woven, heavy duty nylon, however recent trends have led to an increase in multi-threat Kevlar® vests, which offer protection from bullet and stab threats, whilst others offer bullet, stab and spike protection.

It is important to note that not every stab resistant vest will also offer spike protection. If you are going to face spike based threats please ensure you select a vest with additional spike protection.

Body Armor User Guide

What your body armor is NOT

Please be aware that body armor is NOT designed to provide 100% protection against every conceivable threat. Your body armor will provide protection up to its stated levels, so always ensure that you have the correct level of protection for the threats you could face.

Body Armor Maintenance

Cleaning

Body armor should be cleaned straight after wearing using a weak liquid detergent and warm water. Sponge the vest cover, do not immerse the vest in water as this could damage the panels. Do not dry in direct sunlight.

Storage

Body armor should be stored flat when not in use . This will stop creases and wrinkles forming in the ballistic materials.

Washing

Do not wash the Kevlar® inserts, as this could cause damage to the ballistic fibers If required they can be lightly sponged with warm, soapy water. The covers are made from various materials and the washing instructions should be followed.

Damage

Body armor should be visually inspected for damage or excessive wear every time it is worn. Never wear body armor that is damaged in anyway.

Inserting Protective Panels

Bullet, stab and spike proof vests are designed to be worn in a specific direction. It is important that you ensure the ballistic panels within your vest carrier are facing the correct direction at all times. When a bullet strikes a bullet proof vest its impact is absorbed by the many layers of fabric within 3 nanoseconds, caught, and prevented from passing through the vest itself. However this method of stopping a bullet is directional, which means that it works only when the panels are facing in the correct direction. If the panel is facing the wrong way then the web of fibers becomes practically useless, and leaves the wearer open to serious threat.

The same applies to stab and spike proof vests. If the protective panel is facing the wrong way it becomes easier for pointed objects to pass through, as they are not designed to protect against threats from that direction.

All protective panels are clearly marked with the direction they are intended to be worn, and it is important that the wearer ensures they are aware of this at all times. If you remove your vests panels in order to wash the outer carrier then always pay attention when putting the vest back together, and ensure that when the panels are reinserted they are facing the correct direction.

Adjustment

Most bullet proof vests are adjustable at the waist in order to provide the wearer with a well fitted, comfortable vest. Armour should not be worn too tightly as this may increase body heat and restrict movement.

Effects of water and sweat on body armor

The armor we sell is made from aramid fibers and these will lose some of their protective properties if they are totally immersed in water for a long period of time, however this will only be temporary until the armor has dried out. Our body armor will not be affected by rain or sweat.

This article was provided courtesy of SafeGuard ARMOR™. SafeGuard ARMOR™ has been operating for 25 years, selling our body armor to thousands of individuals and companies across the world. Started in 1986, we have grown from a small operation selling bullet proof vests to local companies, to the worldwide leader in body armor. We now manufacture our body armor in the U.S. and Europe, and have multiple distribution points around the world.

SafeGuard ARMOR™ LLC
1925 Timberline Road N19
Fort Collins, CO 80525
(970) 626-6038
info@safeguardarmor.com
http://safeguardarmor.com

“We know that most people associate surveillance with this type of vehicle, and I was determined to find a way to develop a system that allowed our investigators to blend more seamlessly with their environment,” explained Zach Grove, company president.

After months of testing and re-tooling, Zach developed the Unmanned Video Surveillance Platform.  The system consists of a pan/tilt/zoom camera that is covertly concealed on the interior of a car without any tinted windows or other stereotypical “surveillance” fittings.  The camera is covertly connected to an interior digital video recorder (DVR), which saves all recorded material for later retrieval and editing.  The vehicle is parked in a location within eye-shot of the surveillance location and left alone, seemingly empty.  The investigators then position themselves in a second vehicle nearby to conduct trailing surveillance if or when it is necessary and view all the activity on a laptop via a secure internet connection.

“The beauty of this system is that my investigators can see what is going on in real-time and can control the camera’s movements with the click of a mouse.  We have eliminated the need to place an investigator in a sometimes compromising position without sacrificing any visibility.  It is more covert and much more effective,” stated Grove.

The Unmanned Video Surveillance Platform is utilized in nearly all of Armada Global’s investigations and is only inhibited by lack of vehicle parking or low/no wireless signal since the system operates via wireless technologies.  It has now been used and proven successful in thousands of hours of real surveillance cases.

There are, of course, obvious benefits to using this system like more covert surveillance and increased officer safety since personnel don’t need to be physically present to view and record activity.

“Safety is sometimes a huge concern to us, especially when we’re operating in urban areas known to have a high crime rate.  I feel better knowing that I’m not putting my people out where it would not be safe for them,” said Grove.  “We drop the Unmanned Video Surveillance Platform in place and then move to a location, possibly a public establishment on a busy street, where safety would not be as much of a concern.”

Another advantage to using the Unmanned Video Surveillance Platform is the potential to decrease budgetary requirements.  On cases where trailing surveillance is not needed or required, the system can be placed in position and then monitored and controlled from the home office.  This allows for fewer personnel to be out on the streets and has the potential to cut payroll significantly.  Increased investigator comfort is also another significant benefit, especially when dealing with temperature extremes.

“Anyone who has ever sat in the back of a vehicle to conduct surveillance knows that there is nothing worse than a hot, summer day,” explained Grove.  “Opening the vehicle’s windows or, worse yet, turning the vehicle on to run the AC, largely decreases the covertness of the operation.  The Unmanned Video Surveillance Platform can run effectively in very hot and cold temperatures, which allows the investigator to sit comfortably in air conditioning throughout the day.”

Armada Global’s management team has come to realize during the two-years that they have been utilizing the Unmanned Video Surveillance Platform that it would have a tremendous benefit to law enforcement, especially for narcotics investigations or pre-raid planning.  As such, they are now scheduling demonstrations and making the system available for purchase by law enforcement or licensed private investigators.  The Unmanned Video Surveillance Platform can be customized for specific needs or uses and comes with two pan/tilt/zoom cameras, DVR, battery power, connecting cables, a laptop, and all required software in a rugged Pelican Case for easy storage and deployment.  An Armada Global representative will also provide up to 20-hours of system set-up and training.

For additional information on Armada Global, Inc and their Unmanned Video Surveillance Platform or to schedule a demonstration, please call 1-412-253-2013 or email admin@armadaglobalinc.com.

Armada Global has also set up a closed group for PIs and LE on Facebook for those that want to view demo clips, evaluate the system, etc. You’ll need to send a join request after following this link http://www.facebook.com/groups/135852289865448/

They are only allowing licensed PIs and LE access, so if your FB account doesn’t note this association, please email us in advance with the name of your company or department - admin@armadaglobalinc.com

All Americans are strongly urged to carry their firearms in the days surrounding September 11, 2011 in defense of their country and its citizens.

This Sunday marks the ten-year anniversary of the tragic events that we now simply refer to as 9-11 in the United States.

Ten years ago, on September 11, 2001, nineteen terrorists hijacked and crashed four commercial airplanes killing nearly three thousand people; two planes hit the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center in New York City and ultimately brought them down. Another plane was flown into the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia and the last plane crashed into a field in the vicinity of Shanksville, Pennsylvanian after several brave passengers attempted to retake control of UA Flight 93.

I write this article today not as a reminder or a history lesson, but as an important wake up call and, most importantly- a call to arms!

According to recent FBI reports, al-Qaeda has expressed interest in striking us again and that they may be planning a “Mumbai-style” attack in American cities. If history and memory serves correctly, al-Qaeda has always favored the symbolism of attacking again on or around the anniversary of prior successes.

A “Mumbai-style attack” is an attack tactic of multiple, coordinated attacks, carried out simultaneously by a handful of actors using small-arms fire and explosives named after the November 26, 2008, Islamist terrorist attacks in Mumbai, India that lasted three days killing 164 people and wounding at least 308.

Security experts agree that an armed Indian public could have presented a sizable counter-force capable of quickly disrupting the terrorist operation and keeping the Islamists off balance long enough for military and law enforcement responders to subdue the attackers completely.

On July 22, 2011, lone gunman, Anders Behring Breivik, killed 69 unarmed and helpless citizens attending a summer camp on an island in Norway. Norwegians can own firearms with a permit however a permit would not be issued for self-defense. Furthermore, even though many Norwegians own firearms, the police do not routinely carry handguns. Sadly, it is unlikely that such a benign law enforcement response could have made much of a difference.

It is entirely likely that both of these attacks could have been thwarted or the number of innocent deaths dramatically reduced by an armed and watchful public!

Again, I strongly urge all Americans who are legally able to carry a firearm to arm themselves in defense of their country, its citizens and the very fabric of our society. This is not kowtowing to terror, this is taking a stand against it.

I am armed today because I refuse to be a victim. How about you?

You can make a difference in the event an attack is initiated in the coming weeks by being prepared and vigilant. You are an American Patriot; this is your call to arms! Exercise your Second Amendment freedom… “for eternal vigilance is the price of freedom.”

Pass this message on! Share this article! Re-post it! Tell every one of your like-minded friends!

“Let’s Roll.”

About the author: L. Scott Harrell is a gun-toting American Patriot. In his spare time he is the Editor-in-Chief of Pursuit Magazine, an online private investigator magazine, and a private investigation agency owner in Pensacola, Florida.

California Vehicle Code Section 40008

(a) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, except as otherwise provided in subdivision (c), any person who violates Section 21701, 21703, or 23103, with the intent to capture any type of visual image, sound recording, or other physical impression of another person for a commercial purpose, is guilty of a misdemeanor and not an infraction and shall be punished by imprisonment in a county jail for not more than six months and by a fine of not more than two thousand five hundred dollars ($2,500).

(b) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, except as otherwise provided in subdivision (c), any person who violates Section 21701, 21703, or 23103, with the intent to capture any type of visual image, sound recording, or other physical impression of another person for a commercial purpose and who causes a minor child or children to be placed in a situation in which the child’s person or health is endangered, is guilty of a misdemeanor and not an infraction and shall be punished by imprisonment in a county jail for not more than one year and by a fine of not more than five thousand dollars ($5,000).

(c) Pursuant to Section 654 of the Penal Code, an act or omission described in subdivision (a) or (b) that is punishable in different ways by different provisions of law shall be punished under the provision that provides for the longest potential term of imprisonment, but in no case shall the act or omission be punished under more than one provision. An acquittal or conviction and sentence under any one provision bars a prosecution for the same act or omission under any other provision.

This new law in the California Vehicle Code is very important and will be referenced by police officers, private investigators, or executive protection agents when an arrest is made for the criminal offense of the misdemeanor. If the private investigator or executive protection agent makes the arrest, it is important that he or she indicate to the police officer that the suspect is being arrested for violation of California Vehicle Code section 40008 (a) or violation of California Vehicle Code section 40008 (b), and not refer to the arrest as a violation of the “paparazzi law.”

In California, a misdemeanor arrest by a police officer without a warrant is permissible only if the public offense occurs in the arresting officer’s presence. Otherwise, the officer may only file a police report, which would then be reviewed by a detective, and upon determining if there was sufficient evidence to support the allegation, a recommendation for prosecution would be forwarded to the district attorney’s office.

If the officer is at the right place at the right time, such as being part of a “sting operation” or responding to a 911 call and arriving at the location in a sufficient amount of time to witness the paparazzi committing the violation, he or she would be able to make the arrest. Unfortunately, in most cases when the officer arrives at the location, the incident has already occurred.

The notion that the police should “round up” the paparazzi or make arrests for violations that were not witnessed by the officer is unlikely to happen. California Penal code 837 authorizes a private citizen, including a private investigator to make an arrest for a misdemeanor committed in his or her presence. This is where the executive protection agents or private investigators hired to protect a celebrity, come into play in having this law enforced. The executive protection agents or private investigators that have gathered and preserved evidence have the option of either having the paparazzi that violated the law arrested on the spot or filing a criminal report with the police department and later having that individual prosecuted. If a decision is made to make an arrest on the spot, the executive protection agents or investigators who have arrived to a safe location, and with vehicles stopped, may apprehend the individual themselves or choose to have the police respond and have them make the apprehension. The arresting party will still be the executive protection agents or the private investigators, and they will appear in court and provide evidence of the offense.

This activity is very similar to what security or loss prevention agents conduct on a regular basis at stores with regards to petty theft, also misdemeanor, and a violation of California Penal Code section 484. Once the theft is conducted in the presence of security, they will apprehend and arrest the individual. The police department will be called to transport the individual to jail. Security will be responsible for providing evidence and testifying in court.

This criminal law is one amendment of many that was made to 1708.8 of the California Civil Code which addresses invasion of privacy issues. Private investigators who may be wondering if any of these amendments or the language used in this anti-paparazzi law hinder the ability of an investigator to conduct surveillance in the performance of his duties, it does not.  The legislation committee of the California Association of Licensed Investigators did a great job working with this bill to have section (g) included, which addresses legitimate investigations conducted by licensed private investigators.

California Vehicle Code section 40008 is not intended to stop paparazzi from conducting their work, and in many cases, the celebrity may welcome their presence. It is intended to stop those individuals who follow a celebrity in a reckless manner with disregard for public safety. If a celebrity feels that while traveling on the road their lives and the lives of their children have been placed in danger by the dangerous actions of the paparazzi, he or she may use this law to stop those actions by hiring a licensed and qualified private investigator that has a complete understanding of the law.

Jesse Martell, CII
Martell Investigations
http://martellpi.com

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: For more than 18 years, Jesse Martell, President of Martell Investigations has been providing the highest quality of specialized investigations. Jesse Martell has been interviewed and featured in numerous articles about the new anti-paparazzi legislation.

Anti-terrorism:

Anti-terrorism Awareness: Fundamental knowledge of the terrorist threat and measures to reduce personal vulnerability to terrorism. See also anti-terrorism.

Asset: Any potential target of terrorist attack, most commonly people, equipment, a building, or an outdoor venue (in whole or in part).

Blast Curtains: Heavy curtains made of blast resistant materials that could protect the occupants of a room from flying debris.

Blast Vulnerability Envelope: The resources around an explosive device that will be damaged by the blast.

Clear Zone: An area that is clear of visual obstructions and landscape materials that could conceal a threat or perpetrator.

Controls: The countermeasures for vulnerabilities. There are three types: Preventative Controls reduce the likelihood of a deliberate attack, protect vulnerabilities, and make an attack unsuccessful or reduce its impact; Corrective Controls reduce the impact of an attack and restore the plant to normal operation; and Detective Controls discover attacks and activate preventative or corrective controls.

Counter-intelligence: Information gathered and activities conducted to protect against espionage, other intelligence activities, sabotage, or assassinations conducted for or on behalf of foreign powers, organizations, or persons; or international terrorist activities, excluding personnel, physical, document, and communications security programs.

Counter-terrorism (CT): Offensive measures taken to prevent, deter, and respond to terrorism.

Crime prevention through environmental design (CPTED): A multi-disciplinary approach to deterring criminal behavior through environmental, building, architectural, landscape and urban design. CPTED strategies rely upon the ability to influence offender decisions that precede criminal acts.

Deceit: Adversary actions directed at overcoming elements of the physical protection system by normal submission to an element with the expectation that unauthorized conditions, such as a fake badge or shielded material, will not be detected.

Domestic Terrorism: Terrorism perpetrated by the citizens of one country against fellow countrymen. That includes acts against citizens of a second country when they are in the host country, and not the principal or intended target.

Ductile Materials: Materials that are malleable and will absorb impact loads without breaking.

Electronic Security Systems (ESS): That part of physical security concerned with the safeguarding of personnel and property by use of electronic systems. These systems include, but are not limited to, intrusion detection systems (IDS), automated entry control systems (AECS), and video assessment systems.

Exclusive Zone: An area around an asset which has controlled entry with highly restrictive access.

Force: Adversary actions directed at overcoming elements of the physical protection system by overt aggressive activities, which the adversary expects to be detected and thus is prepared to forcefully defend against the response.

Force Protection: Security program designed to protect military personnel, civilian employees, family members, facilities, and equipment, in all locations and situations, accomplished through planned and integrated application of combating terrorism, physical security, operations security, personal protective services, and supported by intelligence, counterintelligence, and other security programs.

High-Risk Target: Any asset or facility that, because of mission sensitivity, ease of access, isolation, and symbolic value, may be an especially attractive or accessible terrorist target.

Internal Damping: Anything that absorbs some or all of the impact from a blast.

Military Facility: A facility subject to the custody, jurisdiction, or administration of any Department of Defense (DoD) Component. This term includes, but is not limited to, military reservations, installations, bases, posts, camps, stations, arsenals, or laboratories where a DoD Component has operational responsibility and has responsibility for facility security and defense.

Non-Exclusive Zone: An area around an asset that has controlled entry but less restrictive access than a exclusive zone.

Nuclear, Biological, or Chemical Weapons (NBC): Also called Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD). Weapons that are characterized by their capability to produce mass casualties.

Physical Security: The part of security concerned with measures/concepts designed to safeguard personnel; to prevent unauthorized access to equipment, installations, material, and documents; and to safeguard them against espionage, sabotage, damage, and theft.

Sacrificial Roof or Wall: Walls or roofs that can be lost in a blast without damage to the primary asset.

Safe Haven: Secure areas within the interior of the facility. A Safe Haven should be designed such that it requires more time to penetrate by a terrorist attack than it takes for the response force to reach the protected area to rescue the occupants.

Stand-off Distance: The distance between an asset and a threat.

Stand-off Weapons: Weapons that are launched from a distance at a target (anti-tank weapons, mortars, etc.).

Stealth: Adversary actions directed at overcoming elements of the physical protection system by avoiding or deactivating these elements in an attempt to prevent detection.

Terrorism: 1.The calculated use of violence to inculcate fear; intended to coerce or to intimidate governments or societies in the pursuit of goals that are generally political, religious, or ideological. 2. The unlawful use or threatened use of force or violence against individuals or property to coerce or intimidate governments or societies, often to achieve political, religious, or ideological objectives.

Threats: Things that can go wrong or that can ‘attack’ the processing system. Threats are always present.

Threat Analysis: In anti-terrorism, threat analysis is a continual process of compiling and examining all available information concerning potential terrorist activities by terrorist groups that could target a facility. A threat analysis will review the factors of a terrorist group’s existence, capability, intentions, history, and targeting, as well as the security environment within which friendly forces operate. Threat analysis is an essential step in identifying probability of terrorist attack and results in a threat assessment. See also anti-terrorism.

Vital equipment: Equipment, systems, or components whose failure or destruction would cause unacceptable interruption to a national security program or an unacceptable impact on the health and safety of the public. Operations offices are responsible for identifying the vital equipment located at facilities under their purview.

Vulnerability: 1. The susceptibility of a nation or military force to any action by any means through which its war potential or combat effectiveness may be reduced or its will to fight diminished. 2. The characteristics of a system which cause it to suffer a definite degradation (incapability to perform the designated mission) as a result of having been subjected to a certain level of effects in an unnatural (man-made) hostile environment.

What I have come to learn is that kidnapping is a growing global epidemic with no realistic solution.

By definition kidnapping is “the taking away or transportation of a person against the person’s will, usually to hold the person in false imprisonment, a confinement without legal authority.” This may be done for ransom or in furtherance of another crime, or in connection with a child custody dispute.  Non-custodial parent abductions of children were, by far, the number one type of kidnapping occurring across the globe in 2010 and often does not get included in the most common statistical reporting of abductions.

Kidnapping for ransom is certainly a common occurrence in many parts of the world today (especially in Latin America) and certain countries are often described as the “Kidnapping Capital of the World.” In 2010, Mexico clearly earned the title but very few abductions were for financial gain; it is estimated that over 90% of the kidnappings in Mexico were due to the wars being fought among and between the various drug cartels and the Mexican government. Statistically, nearly all of the victims in Mexico were killed. In 2007, the title “Kidnapping Capital of the World” belonged to Iraq with possibly 1,500 foreigners kidnapped; estimates break that number almost in half between kidnapping for ransom and kidnapping for ideological purposes.  In 2004, Mexico held the title and in 2001, it was Colombia.

How does a kidnapper choose his victim?

Kidnappers tend to develop a profile of their likely target before making an abduction based upon their overall goals, which usually falls into one of three categories: financial gain, extremism or emotional disturbance.

If a kidnapper is going to take a hostage for ransom, he will target the victim based upon an outward appearance of wealth or information given to him from someone who knows the victim intimately, such as a household employee, a bank teller, a waitress at the victim’s favorite restaurant or someone else that suspects that the victim has a lot of cash.

Have you ever inadvertently “flashed” a lot of cash while digging through your wallet or purse to pay for something at the local market? If you are a regular, that sort of gossip tends to get a lot of attention from minimum wage workers and the dollar amounts often gets blown out of proportion the more times the “story of your wealth” gets told!

The good news is that hostage-for-ransom victims tend to survive their ordeal. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash or wearing expensive jewelry. Be discrete about how much money you have and where you keep it. Hire domestic employees carefully and do not give your trust to them easily.

Zealots, extremists and terrorists tend to target their victims based upon such things as nationality, ethnicity, religion, social status or organizational affiliation (i.e. employees of a specific company or political party might be targeted). Unfortunately, because the primary aim of these types of abductions is to create sensationalism, be visible or to make a statement, the percentage of hostages that are killed can be quite high.

Strong emotion and mental defect also play a large part in the overall number of kidnappings. The kidnapping of a child by a non-custodial parent or other adult is usually based upon an emotion upheaval created when the kidnapper feels that the child’s welfare and best interests are at risk or that the child will be gone completely from their lives. Non-custodial parent kidnappings also occur out of spite or revenge.  People take hostages during periods of rage and profound loss, too. One classic example is that of a man taking an ex-lover hostage because he is emotionally unable to let go. The feeling of loss festers into the irrational thought that he might be able to convince the victim to reconsider resuming their relationship… if she could just be made to listen. Gender-based kidnappings occur as well; the mentally disturbed who have sexual deviancies often target people just because they are male or female.

There really is nothing one can do to avoid the attention of a would-be kidnapper who is either an extremist or otherwise mentally disturbed. Apply standard personal safety precautions to lessen the chances of becoming a victim; situational awareness is of paramount importance.

Tips for avoiding being kidnapped.

It is critical that you pay attention to your surroundings and maintained a sense of privacy.

If you are a tourist or business traveler dress like the locals. Blending in helps avoid the attention of people who are looking for obvious or lucrative targets.  Avoid wearing extravagant jewelry, expensive clothing, company logoed apparel and religious garb that identifies a specific faith if it is not appropriate for your surroundings. Don’t wear clothing with your name on it – the same applies to your children.  Keep your itinerary and travel plans to yourself!

Are you being watched or followed? Does it appear that you are about to be approached by a stranger or group of strangers? People who are surveilling or following others tend to fixate on their target, which causes them to stare. Personally, I like to spin around really quickly every so often while I am walking just to see who instantly averts their eyes.  Likewise, when I am driving I make a random a series of turns or make two abrupt u-turns to see if I am being tailed.

Targets are especially vulnerable while travelling. An abductor tends to surveil his victim while planning his attack because he is looking for a weakness in the victim’s routine. People get comfortable and settle into a predictable pattern of daily activities from which the abductor can study and choose when and where he will have an advantage over the target and have the least risk of being caught in the act. The best defense against becoming a victim to your own routine is to consciously change your routine every day: Vary the times that you leave and return home. Use several different routes during your daily travels. If you travel by bus, try and limit the amount of time you are waiting at bus stops and only use stops that are well-used during the times you are typically waiting there. Only use clearly-marked and licensed taxis and never except a ride from a stranger.

If you are driving a personal vehicle make sure that it is well-maintained and has plenty of fuel; the last thing you want to have happen is to run out of fuel at night!  You don’t want to become a “target of opportunity” because you are helpless on the side of the road.  Keep your car doors locked and a mobile phone where you can get to it quickly in an emergency.  Don’t be afraid to call for help if you are stranded, uncomfortable or need any type of assistance.

Carry and use a “GPS-aware” mobile phone. It is absolutely possible locate your phone through a process of pinging or triangulation.  Many fugitives and abducted children have been recovered through the use of cell phone pinging by various State and Federal law enforcement agencies. You can learn more about that process at http://pursuitmag.com/locating-mobile-phones-through-pinging-and-triangulation/.

If you have a flat tire or are in an automobile collision (we don’t call them “accidents” because the collision could have been planned) and your vehicle is still operable drive to the nearest public place before exchanging information with the driver. Always call the authorities who are responsible for investigating collisions whether or not the impact felt “minor” if it is dark or you are unfamiliar of with your surroundings.  One important consideration to take into account about your mobile phone: if it is resting untethered on your car’s dash or center console when you are in a vehicle collision the phone will probably be thrown about the car’s interior and can be nearly impossible to find, especially if you are disoriented, injured or the car is badly damaged.

Self-defense classes, personal safety equipment and concealed firearms (where legal) really can make a difference!

Most importantly, darkness and isolation are tools that abductors leverage to their best advantage! Concealment offers him the ability to catch a victim off-guard with very little chance of interference from bystanders.  If you must be alone, remain in well-lit places with a lot of people around.

What to do if you are being abducted:

Fight your abductors like your life depends on it and make as much of a commotion for as long as you are able. Oftentimes an attacker will give up if there is a perceived risk that the attacker might be hurt or caught during the process or if you are more trouble than you are worth. The longer you can drag out the instance of being abducted, the better your odds become of avoiding the eventuality of the attacker’s success. If you believe that you are the victim of a hate crime, a target of an extremist or are being moved to facilitate a violent sexual act against you, then you MUST fight with everything you’ve got. Your chances of survival after being moved under these circumstances are almost zero percent.  Personally, I would rather die at that moment and location where I had a chance of survival than be drug away where I do not; the probability of an excruciatingly painful death is almost certain, too.

Screaming “Fire!” is better than screaming an unintelligible sentence like, “Help, I’m being kidnapped!” and do it in the language spoken by likely bystanders or others who may hear you; for example, you’ll want to know the correct words or phrases in Spanish if you are in Latin or Central America. Learn and practice those words and phrases ahead of time.

If you are subdued and can no longer fight or scream, stop struggling and calm down. You need to be able to think rationally and strategically. You must clear your head of the clouding effects of adrenaline. If you believe that you are the victim of a hostage-for-ransom scheme, then work with them through negotiations and giving them points of contact. People often die while trying to escape; the longer you remain in captivity the better chance you have of eventually being freed or rescued.

Be overly courteous to your abductors and mind your manners! Don’t argue with, complain to, or threaten your captors. Listen to them when they speak and follow their instructions if you are not in imminent danger.

If your abductors let you speak, do so in a gentle voice.  Project humility and gain empathy; talk with your captors in a manner that might suggest you understand their circumstances and the reasons that led them to target you because “you are human and face difficult situations as well.” Find commonality, sports, children, religion, shared experiences, etc., and convince them that there is no real reason to hurt you physically. If you are unclear as to your captor’s motive for taking you, then you might suggest that you are worth more alive than dead to buy you some time.

If you learn the abductor’s name, your location or potential plans DO NOT use their name or talk about them unless they shared that information with you directly. There is no need to make the situation worse because you “know too much.”

Do not tell your captors anything that will endanger the lives of others or that can be used against you to further their crime.

Most importantly, retain your sense of dignity and self-worth. Maintain your hygiene the best you are able. Find religion and pray regularly; studies have shown that people who pray regularly and thoughtfully have higher confidence levels, elevated endorphin and serotonin levels within the body and are able to deal with traumatic experiences more effectively. P.O.W.s have often related that prayer emboldened their spirit and maintained their will to live.

While professional expertise does not necessarily guarantee job security, it can mitigate many risks associated with being chosen for a redundancy action or experiencing protracted unemployment if a displacement from a reduction in force is realized. For security professionals seeking to better prepare for surviving turbulent employment environments, evidencing professional acumen and expertise is paramount.

Developing professional acumen and expertise necessitates more than the acquisition of specialized knowledge; it requires a genuine mastery of the subject matter, engagement in the discipline, and recognition as a qualified authority by professional organizations, groups, and individuals.  Since the recognition of expertise is a matter frequently evaluated by America’s judiciary, security practitioners seeking to enhance their professional acumen should consider modeling their credentials against that which is often required during a court’s qualification of an expert witness.

1. Professional Accomplishments: While the resumes of most security professionals are typically replete in their reference to knowledge, skills and abilities, all too often these documents fail to articulate professional achievements that were accomplished in the course of employment. Since documentation of professional accomplishments is a common means of assessing an employee’s actual or potential value in an organization, security professional must be diligent in their efforts to record these key events. Examples of professional accomplishments worth noting would include, the implementation of training programs that result in superior guard force performance, the identification of innovative solutions for promoting an enhanced environment of workplace safety and security, or the renegotiation of master service agreements with key vendors resulting in cost containment or reductions.

2. Professional Certifications: Typically awarded by recognized professional organizations, professional certifications provide legitimate documentation of competence in specialized matters or technical skills. While professional certifications frequently provide collegial recognition and affirmation of expertise within a specific career field or peer group, a greater benefit is realized when a certification’s associated post-nominal letters are viewed and appreciated by senior management, human resources, or professional recruiters. Professional certifications of interest to security practitioners may include, in part: Certified Protection Professional (CPP), Physical Security Professional (PSP), Professional Certified Investigator (PCI), Certified Protection Officer (CPO), Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE), Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Certified Lodging Security Director (CLSD), Certified Healthcare Security (CHS), Certified Emergency Manager (CEM), or Member Security Institute, (MSyl).

3. Professional Demeanor:  It’s a fact; a professional demeanor is one of the most important yet undervalued elements of professional expertise. While academic and experiential qualifications remain essential, a professional demeanor is pivotal to the success or failure of even the most aspired career. Security professionals enjoying business savior-faire, polished communication skills, emotional maturity, a propriety of etiquette, a charismatic disposition, respectful attitude, and peerless integrity are often held in higher esteem than those who are devoid in these matters. For those who seek opportunities to enhance these qualities, executive emulation, professional mentoring, Internet research, and an array of books will yield a treasure trove of information to help rectify deficiencies while maximizing existing attributes.

4. Professional Development: Regardless of the profession, continuous professional development is essential to remaining current in any career field. For the very same reasons that outdated technology has diminished value, failure to remain professionally abreast can seriously marginalize a security leaders worth to any organization. As a performance initiative, professional development can be realized by attending professional conferences, seminars, or trade shows, participating in webinars, assuming new assignments, enrolling in civic leadership programs, or engaging in relevant training. It is important to remember, however, that documentation of key professional development experiences should be retained for potential inclusion in resumes, annual performance appraisals, or as verification of required continuing education for professional certifications.

5. Professional Education: If professional expertise is built upon a foundation of professional credentials, then graduate education stands preeminent as the cornerstone of qualifications. As a requisite credential for career advancement, a professional education typically accompanies an expectation of enhanced knowledge, skills, and abilities. While a graduate degree cannot guarantee career success, it will frequently enable enhanced employment opportunities, promotional consideration, and even a basis for retention when organizational realignments are required. Security professionals looking to further their professional educations may find value in accelerated executive programs, on-line or distance learning degrees, post graduate certificates or certificates of advanced graduate study. Since many employers will not recognize professional educations from  institutions that are not regionally accredited or similarly authorized in foreign countries, security professionals are advised to carefully verify the legitimacy and reputation of any program, college or university prior to matriculation.

6. Professional Memberships:  Active memberships in reputable professional organizations, associations, institutes, and societies are essential to security professionals who wish to demonstrate their professional engagement within the industry. As an element of professional expertise, professional memberships speak to a security professional’s gravitas, their affiliation with professional peers, and adherence to ethical standards promulgated by those organizations. Security professionals looking to establish professional memberships should first consider ASIS International, or similar organizations that establish discerning membership criteria, local chapter affiliations, professional development opportunities, and research initiatives that contribute to a common body of knowledge.  Several professional organizations featuring these attributes include, The International Security Management Association (ISMA), The International Association of Private Security Consultants (IAPSC), The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), and The American Management Association (AMA).

7. Professional Networks: Since it is commonly held in some circles that a professional is only as good as his network, the need for security professionals to aggressively position themselves with colleagues, peers, and trusted associates becomes apparent. Although professional networks have been traditionally developed through organizational affiliations, personal introductions, and referrals, the recent emergence of social media products like LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter have rocketed professional networking into a whole new dimension. In the words of industry colleague Karen Armold, “If you aren’t professionally networked, you aren’t engaged and if you’re not engaged, you’re likely to be disengaged!”

8. Professional Presentations: While public speaking can be an anxiety provoking experience for even the most seasoned of practitioners, the delivery of professional presentations is a traditional and recognized indication of professional expertise. Frequently subject to the scrutiny of both formal and informal peer review, professional presentations draw upon the presenter’s intellect, professional experiences, and oratorical abilities as a lecturer. Characterized by specialized content, an educational focus, and formal delivery at conferences, seminars, or symposiums, professional presentations provide a prime opportunity for security professionals to evidence their expertise to learned audiences, existing employers and/or potential employers.

9. Professional Publications: While few security professionals beyond those engaged in academia are generally expected to be accomplished writers, the ability to author informative articles for inclusion in professional publications will significantly contribute to a reputation of authority and expertise. Since asset protection, loss avoidance, and personal security are topics of interest to readers representing diversified career fields, security professionals will often find that their articles yield a special intrigue to editors of real estate, child care, boating, retail and even landscaping publications. Security professionals preparing more substantive papers may wish to submit their works to peer reviewed journals or professional periodicals targeting a more academically focused readership.

10. Professional Recognitions: Typically conferred in recognition of an uncommon achievement, professional honors and awards acknowledge the remarkable accomplishments of distinguished individuals. As an attestation of professional accomplishment, achievement, or exemplary service, professional recognitions serve to validate professional expertise and laudable capabilities of those upon whom the recognition is bestowed. Professional recognitions of significance to security professionals may include, distinguished achievement awards, professional fellowships, academic honors, governmental commendations, and all senior leadership positions assumed in conjunction with professional memberships and organizational affiliations.

About the Author

Robert F. Granzow III, CPP, CFE
Global Security Manager
TE Connectivity
robert.granzow@te.com

Robert F. Granzow III, CPP, CFE serves as Global Security Manager at TE Connectivity where he enjoys international oversight of the company’s asset protection, loss prevention, threat assessment, and investigation functions. With academic and experiential qualifications in corporate security management, law enforcement administration and forensic investigations, Mr. Granzow holds a Certificate of Advanced Graduate Study in Forensic Medicine from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, an M.S. degree in Criminal Justice from St. Joseph’s University, a B.S. degree in Criminal Justice from York College of Pennsylvania, and an A.A. degree in Police Administration from Harrisburg Area Community College.  He is a graduate of Penn State University’s Police Executive Development Program (POLEX), the International Security Management Association (ISMA) Advanced Leadership Program at Georgetown’s McDonough School of Business, and the ISMA Senior Executive Leadership Program at Northwestern’s Kellogg School of Management.

Mr. Granzow is an ACFE Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) and past President of the Central Pennsylvania Chapter of Certified Fraud Examiners, an ASIS Certified Protection Professional (CPP) and former Chairman of the Central Pennsylvania Chapter of ASIS International, and a life member of the Northeast Pennsylvania Chiefs of Police Association.

Mr. Granzow served honorably with the US Naval Reserves and the Pennsylvania Army National Guard. He is a municipal graduate of the Pennsylvania State Police Academy and has completed advanced specialized training related to forensic investigations, interview and interrogation, crisis management, and workplace violence interdiction.

A resident of central Pennsylvania, Mr. Granzow serves his community as a medicolegal death investigator and is an active member of Pennsylvania’s medical reserve corps in Lancaster County.

Public Affairs Guidance
April 20, 2011

BACKGROUND

For federal, state, local, tribal, territorial and private sector communicators:

• On April 20, 2011 Secretary of Homeland Security Janet Napolitano will announce the implementation of the National Terrorism Advisory System or NTAS.  This DHS Public Affairs Guidance (PAG) provides NTAS topline messages, background, and process information to assist public information officers with the transition from HSAS to NTAS.
• Under this new system, DHS will coordinate with other federal entities to  issue formal, detailed alerts to the public when the federal government receives information about credible terrorist threats.
• These alerts will include a clear statement that there is an “imminent threat” or “elevated threat.” The alerts also will provide a summary of the potential threat, information about actions being taken to ensure public safety, and recommended steps that individuals and communities, businesses and governments can take.
• NTAS Alerts will be distributed through news media, web, mobile and social media channels to the public.
• Communicators may recall that we provided initial public affairs guidance when DHS Secretary Napolitano announced NTAS on January 27, 2011.  The January PAG amplified  remarks  from  Secretary  Napolitano  about  the  NTAS  announcement, detailed a 90 day transition phase from the existing color-coded Homeland Security Advisory System (HSAS) to NTAS, and broadly outlined communicator-specific issues.

NTAS COMMUNICATIONS & COORDINATION QUESTIONS

NTAS Media Questions. You may refer media questions about NTAS to the Department of Homeland Security Office of Public Affairs at (202) 282-8010 or mediainquiry@dhs.gov

Communicator NTAS Process Questions. If you have questions about NTAS communicator processes please contact Jeff Karonis, Director of Incident Communications, DHS Public Affairs (jeff.karonis@dhs.gov).

New Media NTAS Questions. If you have questions about NTAS New Media or web-specific issues in the transition from HSAS to NTAS please contact Chris Stelmarski, DHS Public Affairs (chris.stelmarski@dhs.gov).

NTAS PAG REFERENCE MATERIALS

• Topline NTAS Messages, NTAS Background, and Details on NTAS Alerts
• Public Area NTAS Transition Signage
• New Media and Web master NTAS information
• DHS Press Release on NTAS (separate from PAG)
• National Terrorism Advisory System Public Guide

Topline NTAS Messages

• On January 27, 2011, Secretary Napolitano unveiled the National Terrorism Advisory System (NTAS), which will replace the color-coded Homeland Security Advisory System (HSAS) on April 26, 2011.
• Over the 90-day implementation period the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has  been  working  closely  with our  federal,  state,  local,  tribal  and  private sector partners to implement a system that meets the needs of the public and our partners.
• NTAS is built on a clear and simple premise: When a threat develops that could impact you – the public – we will tell you. We will provide whatever information we can so you know how to protect yourselves, your families, and your communities.
• Security is a shared responsibility and DHS recognizes that the best security strategy is one that gets Americans involved and counts on the public as a key partner in securing our country.
• Under NTAS, DHS will coordinate with other federal entities to issue formal, detailed alerts when the federal government receives information about a specific or credible terrorist threat.
• Alerts will be broadly issued via official channels, media channels and directly to the public.  They may also be sent directly to law enforcement or affected areas of the private sector.
• Alerts will provide a concise summary of the potential threat—clearly indicating whether a threat is “elevated” or “imminent”—and providing information about actions  being  taken  to  ensure  public  safety,  as  well  as  recommended  steps  that individuals, communities, businesses and governments can take to protect themselves to help prevent, mitigate or respond to the threat.
• Given the persistent and evolving nature of our current threat environment, it is important to remember that credible threats – the kind that will result in an NTAS Alert – by their very nature will not develop at regular, predictable or frequent intervals.

NTAS Background

• From Day One, this Administration has operated on the premise that security is a shared responsibility and we all play a role in keeping America safe.
• In July 2009, Secretary Napolitano formed a bipartisan task force of security experts, state and local elected, law enforcement and emergency management officials, and other key stakeholders to assess the effectiveness of the color-coded Homeland Security Advisory System (HSAS).
• The results of this assessment formed the basis of the National Terrorism Advisory System (NTAS).
• Since January, we have been working with our partners in federal government, state and local government, law enforcement, the private and non-profit sectors, airports, and other transport hubs to transition to this new system.
• NTAS will more effectively communicate information about terrorist threats by providing timely, detailed information to the public, government agencies, first responders, airports and other transportation hubs, and the private sector.
• This new system is built on a clear and simple premise: When a threat develops that could impact you – the public – we will tell you. We will provide whatever information we can so you know how to protect yourselves, your families, and your communities.
• As a nation, we are always facing persistent and evolving threats. The lack of  an NTAS Alert at any particular time certainly doesn’t mean the terrorist threat has gone away.
• However, this new system moves away from simply describing the general  threat picture to informing the public about credible threats.

Details on NTAS alerts:

• NTAS Alerts may include specific information, if available, about the nature of the threat,   including   the   geographic   region,   mode   of   transportation,   or   critical infrastructure potentially affected by the threat
• The alerts will also include, where possible and applicable, actions being taken to ensure public safety, and steps that individuals and communities can take to protect themselves and help prevent, mitigate or respond to the threat.
• The alerts will clearly indicate whether the threat is “Elevated,” warning of a credible terrorist  threat  against  the  United  States,  or  “Imminent”,  warning  of  a  credible, specific, and impending terrorist threat against the United States.
• NTAS Alerts have a “sunset provision,” meaning that individual threat alerts will be issued with a specified end date. Alerts may then be extended if new information becomes available or if the threat evolves significantly.
• Alerts will be issued more broadly to the American people through both official and media channels—including a designated DHS webpage (www.dhs.gov/alerts) and via Twitter @NTASAlerts.
• NTAS Alerts will also be tailored specifically to our partners in federal government, state and local government, law enforcement, the private and non-profit sectors, airports, and other transport hubs if the threats specifically pertain to them.

PUBLIC AREA NTAS TRANSITION SIGNAGE

• On April 20 airport authorities and other venues around the country will start posting signage announcing NTAS and replacing the color code threat images.   We expect that these materials will be posted for at least several months to assure a broad public education about the new NTAS system.
• If states desire a copy of the signage please send an email to sara.kuban@dhs.gov and we will provide an electronic copy of the poster.

NEW MEDIA AND WEBMASTER NTAS INFORMATION

This guide provides materials to assist new media practitioners and public affairs web professionals with the transition from HSAS to NTAS.

Website and Online Properties

• The Department has developed three methods for webmasters to incorporate NTAS into their website. All developer information is available at: http://www.DHS.gov/files/programs/ntas-developer-resources.shtm

1. By placing a gif graphic on their page that will automatically change to reflect whether there is an alert issued.
2. By placing an iframe embed code that contains a widget that will automatically update to reflect when there is an alert issued.
3. By using the NTAS API in the form of an XML feed that will contain all alert details for syndication on web, mobile properties and electronic signage.

• The Department encourages websites to syndicate content automatically via the API and to not duplicate alert content. This ensures that the content on your  website is always up to date with the newest information being released by the Department.

Social Media

• The Department will be alerting the public to new NTAS Alerts via the following social media avenues:

1. Official NTAS Dedicated Twitter Account – http://twitter.com/NTASAlerts
2. Official NTAS Dedicated Facebook Account – http://facebook.com/NTASAlerts

• Organizations and individuals are encouraged to rebroadcast (whether repost, retweet, etc) NTAS Alerts from official social media channels to their networks while keeping links back to DHS and official NTAS pages and properties intact.
• Additional social media channels may be added at a later time as appropriate.

Branding and Collateral

• High resolution NTAS graphics can be found at  www.dhs.gov/files/programs/ntas- web-resources.shtm

Additional Guidance and Support

For any questions relating to NTAS related New Media or Web questions contact: Chris Stelmarski, Office of Public Affairs, Department of Homeland Security, chris.stelmarski@hq.dhs.gov

New Media and Web Master NTAS Frequently Asked Questions

What will happen to the current HSAS graphic?

If you are currently embedding the HSAS graphic on your site (http://www.dhs.gov/threat_level/current_new.gif) that graphic will be replaced with an NTAS graphic at the end of the implementation period. If you are “hot linking” that file, you will not need to change anything.

What will the new NTAS badge consist of?

The new NTAS badge will contain the NTAS logo, URL (http://www.dhs.gov/alerts) and will indicate whether there is currently an active alert or not.

Where will I find NTAS Alerts when they are posted?

All NTAS Alerts will be posted on http://www.dhs.gov/alerts

What should I put on my website?

We encourage you to place our NTAS badge or create your own badge using DHS approved branding. Please visit http://www.dhs.gov/files/programs/ntas-web-resources.shtm for vector (EPS), Photoshop and JPEG versions of NTAS graphics.

Is there a way to receive an NTAS Alert feed?

An NTAS XML feed is available at http://www.dhs.gov/files/programs/ntas-developer-resources.shtm.

The very idea of trying to market something called a Reputational Due Diligence Model to clients is preposterous, and, I believe, even redundant. In the context of business intelligence, a background investigation should be included in the due diligence process.

[FIND] Lexicon

due diligence – noun 1 : the care that a reasonable person exercises under the circumstances to avoid harm to other persons or their property; 2 : research and analysis of a company or organization done in preparation for a business transaction (as a corporate merger or purchase of securities)

Now that we have the phrase defined, let’s break it down. Note the words I’ve highlighted: first, we’re defining the term based on what a “reasonable person” would do under “…the circumstances.” Second is the “research and analysis” component — not just a gathering of facts, but analysis of the information.

My problem with simple due diligence as defined here is the idea that we have to limit ourselves to the research and analysis and level of care that a reasonable person would exercise. I, personally, like the idea of research and analysis being conducted by an unreasonably anal person who pays attention to detail in approximately the same infuriating manner that my tenth-grade English teacher graded my essays. A background investigation should be at least thorough, if not exhaustive. That said, common sense must be employed. You don’t want to spend valuable time chasing down obviously erroneous tangents.

Many investigators think a background investigation is simply a reporting of facts, when it should always include thorough and thoughtful analysis of the information. Granted, any licensed professional investigator with a basic level of competency can query the various databases available to him or her and get a quick list of criminal, civil, and other publically available records. But a worthy investigator should always dig deeper.

Deep Research
One standard we that must employ as a matter of practice is Deep Research. The objective of deep research is discerning observation and smart analysis. Discernment in observation calls to mind the notion of not just sensitivity, but also intelligent, wise, and judicious thought. Smart connotes sharp, shrewd, and clever, with a touch of brash and sass for good measure. The entire premise of this method is based on investigators being astute, which comes from the Latin astus, which has both the positive sense of adroitness or dexterity and the… more ambiguous, shall we say, concept of craft or cunning.

Once the initial database inquiries have been made, the basic information is compiled for further study. At this point, look to some proprietary data services that offer more information. Sources like LexusNexis and Westlaw allow natural language and Boolean queries and gather more data from a broader set of sources. This is the second phase of deep research and it involves discernment. Again don’t waste valuable investigative time chasing useless tangents.

Once the basic information and more extensive details available through various data providers are compiled, it’s time to be astute: adroit, dexterous. A dose of cunning is often useful as well. Now we’re down to…craft, or as it’s known in our circles, tradecraft.

Initial Probe
An investigator places a call, either direct or under pretext, to all references. Verify as much information as possible from the subject’s own character witnesses. Confirm all employment, education, and associations. Any claims of advanced degrees, professional designations, and awards should be authenticated. Create a synopsis of the universities attended, professional organizations, and sources of awards. If the subject attended Phoenix University and earned that MBA via the post office, let the client know. If the Association of Bank Managers is made up of four guys and a poker table, the association is most likely of no real value. If the Frank Stevens Award for Legal Letters was conferred by the next-door neighbor, your subject has been creating fiction. Investigate the veracity of all claims.

Digging Deeper
A thorough and exhaustive background investigation should include, but should not be limited to, on-site courthouse research, visits to colleges, interviews with professors, chats with neighbors and old friends, and other methods of tradecraft. The last two methods of gathering primary reference materials are straight out of the world of spycraft and almost always yield valuable insights.

It is almost always useful to place the subject under surveillance for a period of time. Get an idea of lifestyle, character, and habits. This is a chance to expand the list of associates and friends. Often an investigator can identify the subject’s true associates and check this list against the references listed. Actual physical surveillance affords the investigator a chance to get to know the subject, to study his daily routines. With physical surveillance, the investigator can develop a more intimate and realistic picture of the subject’s lifestyle.

The last piece of tradecraft discussed is arguably one of the most underhanded methods available to the field operative. Trash Cover, refuse audit, pulling trash, dumpster diving…whatever an investigator chooses to call it, it’s a messy job, but almost always produces results. The legality of this method is fairly well established. In most states, once a person has placed their rubbish in the bin and rolled it to a publically accessible place, the trash is fair game. One month of garbage usually generates a clear profile of the subject. Groceries, prescriptions, movie/theater tickets, alcohol, illicit drugs, porn, letters to girlfriends, notes to boyfriends, retail receipts, credit card statements, and on, and on, and on…To muster this information into a cohesive portrait of the subject simply takes time, rubber gloves, evidence sleeves, a few notebooks, and meticulous organizational skills.

Summary
A background investigation for due diligence should be a thorough exploration of the facts and a thoughtful rendering of those facts into a portrait of the subject. The subject provides a head shot, their best side in the nicest possible light. Our objective should not be to destroy that ideal, but to augment it with a serious dose of reality. Many investigators approach this type of work with a broad-brush methodology. They simply gather computer-generated information and report that under their letterhead with no verification or support. (Actually, a lot of investigators will just copy and paste the database information into their report.) A worthy investigator will dig deeper. They will corroborate their initial research with several sources. They will contact the original source of information and verify in person or via telephone the virtue of all claims. The true professional will take it even further. He will conduct primary research in the form of observation and evidence gathering.

The “reputational due diligence model” sounds a bit pedantic and purposefully overwrought. A quality background investigation should be thorough and thoughtful and doesn’t need a long meaningless name. Spies have been doing this work for ages. I think they simply call it a dossier.

Editor’s Note: The above piece was provided courtesy of Thomas H. Humphrey via his [FIND] Investigations blog at http://findinvestigations.blogspot.com This is a GREAT blog and certainly worthy of adding it to your RSS feeds or favorites list.  I never fail to find fascinating and fun nuggets of information posted there. Check it out!

Thomas H. Humphreys lives in Nashville, TN where he shares a house, an office, and a life with his wife and partner Kim Green. Mr. Humphreys is an award winning journalist and has contributed to international travel publications, regional magazines and news papers, as well as various public radio outlets. Mr. Humphreys owns [FIND] Investigations, a full service private investigations company.

[FIND] Investigations Website
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The U.S. Secret Service, backed up by three studies over a period of 15 years and published in the FBI Law Enforcement Bulletin (3/06), indentified the following visual cues indicating a person may be carrying a concealed weapon:

Behavioral Traits

In all three aforementioned studies, none of the criminal offenders interviewed used a holster and male offenders reported regularly carrying handguns in the middle torso area; more specifically they tended to tuck the firearm into their right front waistband, between their navel and hip, in order maintain the gun’s accessibility.  One researcher noted that, “They see guns put there in the movies, it’s ‘cool,’ and they can easily show their buddies or enemies that they’re armed.”  One city law enforcement agency conducting their own study noted that of the 1,301 guns confiscated from suspects, only seven of them were wearing holsters.  The second most common hiding place is the small of the back – but it is a distant second place.

Concealed firearms tend to be carried on the person’s “strong side,” which is to say on the same side as their dominant hand.  Is the subject left-handed or right-handed?  Typically, wristwatches are worn on the weak arm and, generally, people use their strong hand for most actions like lighting cigarettes, shoving someone, holding or moving objects, etc.  Even in the absence of confirming visual clues, you can count on approximately 85% of the people in the world being right handed.  Knowing a person’s strong side gives the observer a better chance of locating a hidden gun quickly.

Walking with a concealed, unholstered handgun requires subjects to occasionally touch their firearms to prevent the gun from moving or to adjust the weapon after it moves.  This movement is often referred to by law enforcement instructors as the “security feel” and becomes most notable whenever individuals change body positions, such as standing, sitting, or exiting a car because the unholstered gun tends to shift, causing the subject to adjust or reposition the weapon to the preferred position.  When a subject runs, their actions may appear more pronounced; constantly gripping the handgun to maintain control.

An academy instructor for the U.S. Secret Service uniformed division recently shared the following tip online, “Closely related to the security feel is what I call ‘protective body movement.’ This is particularly noticeable when an armed subject is running or moving abruptly; he holds his arm against the concealed weapon, either stiffly or with a very restrained swing. Even if the suspect is just walking, you may see that he takes a full stride with his opposite-side foot but the gun-side stride will be shorter, almost like a limp in some cases because he’s trying to clamp the gun in place and minimize its slipping or its risk of falling out. The arm may also come in against the gun as a protective movement when people start getting close to the suspect.”

“Watch females who are with bikers and other street gangs,” one police officer cautioned, “many times they carry for the male members, capitalizing on the fact that too many people tend to dismiss females as a threat.”

The studies also concluded that “the majority of female offenders who carried their own weapon preferred small-framed revolvers or automatic pistols. Their preferred place of concealment was in a pocket of their outer clothing, with quick retrieval as their primary concern. Females often carried a weapon for a male companion prior to or after criminal activity. But, interestingly, no female offender reported giving her weapon to anyone to carry for her.”

Basic law enforcement training teaches officers to keep their gun-side away from individuals during street contacts or interviews.  It is widely accepted that armed criminals do the same in encounters with law enforcement professionals to ensure concealment and easy access to their firearms.  As one offender in the study noted, “If they’re on that side of me, they can’t see it. I can also get to it quicker if I need to. Because they can’t see what I’m reaching for, I get that extra second.”

Additional physical behaviors may include “palming,” which is most often observed in subjects concealing edged weapons but occasionally seen with gun wielders, too.  The knife holder may run the blade of the weapon up along the arm or behind the leg to conceal it from frontal view. Just before a target is attacked, an attacker will also typically have his or her eyes fixed on the intended victim.  Palming behaviors often indicate imminent risk to the recovery agent!

I remember one situation in particular when I found a gun in the coat pocket of a fugitive I was chasing through a house that I distinctly heard the sound of the gun hitting a door frame and then coming to rest on a countertop when I had him leaned forward and placing him in handcuffs.  It was obvious by the heavy, solid thud that there was a large metal object in his pocket.

Clothing Indicators

The most obvious giveaway is the telltale bulges in a subject’s clothing.  A gun is not flexible and doesn’t conform well to the shape of the human body, so it may reveal itself in the form of a protrusion.  While the entire firearm may not be outlined, tight clothing may reveal bumps that relate to a hammer, grip or muzzle.  This distortion of the subject’s silhouette is often referred to as “patterning” or “imprinting.”  When trying to conceal a shotgun, rifle or submachine gun under a coat while walking, the butt of the weapon will often cause a noticeable bulge behind the armpit. Additionally, the jacket does not move naturally because it is supported by the outline of the weapon.  When someone wears a shoulder holster or straps on a sawed-off rifle, shotgun or submachine gun under his or her arm, a bulge in front of or behind the armpit will often be visible.

Specific observations regarding a person’s attire may indicate that the individual is armed.  These may include, but are not limited to, what individuals are wearing during various weather conditions, as well as accessory items and unconventional weapons designed and manufactured for concealment that they may carry. Clothing concealment techniques are used by people to hide firearms and other weapon; for example, an un-tucked shirt or buttoned sports jacket are two examples of techniques used to conceal dangerous objects with clothing.  These characteristics may not always be obvious though as casual dress with un-tucked shirts is quite common.  Even though an un-tucked shirt may hide a firearm, in and of itself, it is not a good indicator.  An investigator must judge the concealment characteristics in the context of the environment they are in. With clothing, visual screener need only simply ask, “Does what I see match the surroundings?”

Warm Weather Conditions

Is the individual dressed inappropriately for existing weather and temperature conditions?  A person who attempts to conceal a weapon may wear or carry additional clothing other than that which is required or appropriate considering the outside temperature and humidity.  This suspicious behavior is particularly observable in warm weather.  Why would an individual wear a jacket, sweatshirt, sweater, raincoat, or overcoat on a bright sunny day when others are dressed in short-sleeved shirts?  Is the individual wearing multilayered clothing, such as two shirts or a pair of sweatpants over a pair of jeans, on a hot day?  Similarly, why does a man wearing a shirt and tie, suit pants, and dress shoes have his shirttail hanging out?  Less obvious are individuals in casual attire with their shirttails outside their pants.  Such inappropriate apparel can cover areas of the body where criminals frequently conceal firearms.

Obviously, it is easier visually detect firearms on individuals dressed appropriately for warm weather.  At-risk individuals should look for unnatural protrusions or bulges in the waist, back, and crotch areas and watch for less conspicuous cues, such as shirts that appear rippled or wavy on one side of the body while the fabric on the other side appears smooth.  Many offenders in the three studies revealed that they purposely transported weapons in their crotch areas as much for concealment as the reluctance of officers to thoroughly search this location.

Cold and Inclement Weather Conditions

Are individuals with a coat, raincoat, or jacket draped over their arms unnecessarily exposing themselves to the elements?  What about those wearing a hooded jacket or coat in the rain or snow without the hood covering the head?  One offender stated that he had several friends who carried firearms in their jacket hoods. Does a loose-hanging hood seem weighted down, causing the drawstring to pucker?  Also, in periods of extremely cold weather, why would people not button or zip up their jackets or heavy coats?  Could it be that they want quick access to a firearm?

When individuals have on jackets and coats, are these pieces of clothing visibly weighted to one side, giving the appearance of an unusually heavy object in the pocket?  Normally, personal items such as wallets, keys, and cell phones do not weigh enough to cause a pocket to hang substantially lower than the one on the opposite side– but large caliber guns favored by street thugs typically do.  When the subject walks or runs, does his coat or jacket bounce off his leg as if something heavy is in the pocket?

Accessories and Other Items Carried

In cold weather conditions, individuals may have a hand warmer attached to their clothing or person in some manner.  If these people appear to have been outside for some time, why are their hands not inside the device?  If they have gloves on, why do they need the hand warmer?  Does it exhibit ripples or waves in the fabric, giving the appearance of containing a heavy object?

What about individuals carrying such items as purses, knapsacks, fanny packs, soft briefcases, gym bags, folded-over newspapers, or paper bags that appear out of place?  Do these articles display a protrusion?  Is the outline of the frame of a handgun or a partial contour, such as the barrel or butt, visible?  If a subject seems to have a wallet in his pocket but is wearing a fanny pack, then what’s in the fanny pack?  Does it appear weighted with a heavy object?  Most types of fanny packs can conceal a handgun and many are purposes-built with a draw string or other quick-release closure method added for rapid access to a handgun.

One of the most important concepts of visual weapons screening is behavior clusters; the totality of circumstances will dictate the degree of likelihood of an individual being armed. When evaluating any individual for the possibility of a concealed firearm it is important to take into account their behavior “in context” as well!  Wearing inappropriate clothing could be completely explainable, depending on the circumstances and surroundings. For example, a traveler who just arrived from a colder climate may have on an overcoat on a warm sunny day.  Perhaps, the person has to carry luggage, making it necessary to temporarily wear the coat.  This individual may be near an airport, train terminal, bus station, or subway or in the process of hailing a taxicab.  Under these circumstances, the observation of inappropriate clothing for existing weather conditions probably would not constitute a clear indicator that the person may be concealing a firearm because such behavior could be completely understandable.  Alert investigators, however, may use these indicators as a reason to take a second, closer look and notice a slight bulge or protrusion or other physical behavior trait that confirms their suspicions.

Unconventional Firearms and Disguised Weapons

Fugitive recovery agents need to remain vigilant for a separate class of firearms designed for concealment. Generally constructed without sights, these weapons, referred to as “belly guns,” usually are inaccurate unless fired at a very close range. Manufacturers also have produced handguns and other weapons intentionally disguised as other objects, including pens, pagers, cell phones, belt buckles, and wallets. Thugs have related that they possessed such weapons to use against anyone who may overlook them during arrest or transport situations. The use of a hand-held magnetometer can assist in detecting these types of handguns and other potentially dangerous metal instruments, such as knives and razors.

Click here for a disguised weapons manual circulated among law enforcement professionals.

Click here for a second guide to additional unconventional hidden and concealed weapons.

Click here for real guns disguised as toys.

Studies indicate that there is no reliable profile of the people who carry and use weapons unlawfully; they are white, Latino, Asian every other race and ethnicity. They are male or female. They wear expensive clothing, including tailored suits, and they are from all socioeconomic classes. It is paramount that all subjects under your control, including those of the opposite sex, be searched for concealed weapons using optimum frisking and location techniques. Recovery agents must remain vigilant and constantly remind themselves that a recovery of a weapon from a suspect should never prohibit the continued search of the subject for additional weapons.

Use these tell-tales as a way to make you conscious of your own actions while wearing a concealed weapon as well.  Many investigators who I know carry concealed firearms tend to share many of the same habits, behavior traits and modes of dress discussed in this article. To a knowing individual, you may unconsciously telegraph your armed status in situations where it is best that the presence of a weapon remain concealed such as in an undercover workplace investigation or while conducting field interviews under some pretext.

Knowledge, awareness, clear thinking, and finely honed skills of observation may give investigators an advantage when confronting bail fugitives or their accomplices who may display the specific and unique signals indicating the presence of a firearm or other concealed weapon.  However, the absence of such traits and characteristics should never mean that a bail agent should let his or her guard down while in the presence of the fugitive and his or her associates.  At the end of the day, we all want to go home safely.

Be careful out there.

This article was written by L. Scott Harrell and is posted courtesy IRBseach, LLC.

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