Today sees the launch of National Counter Terrorism Awareness Week 2015 and the following is a communication from the police regarding the week, writes Ryan Gordon.
“Following the recent shocking events in Paris, it is important to highlight that the threat level to the UK from international terrorism remains at severe, which means an attack is highly likely. The UK has been operating at this level since August 2014 and it is important that following these events all communities remain alert but not alarmed.
“The police and security services are working hard to protect the public and businesses from terrorism and this week gives us an opportunity to remind communities about this threat and help them to take the necessary steps to stay safe. The launch today outlines the current threat and what is being done to tackle it.
“On Tuesday the focus will be on public vigilance to help report terrorist activity – both online and off – and explains what to look out for and how the public can get in touch with the police if they have concerns or information about suspicious behaviour or activity.
“Wednesday will see the conversation move toward how businesses and industry can be best prepared against the online threat from cyber terrorism.
“On Thursday efforts will concentrate on the dangers of online radicalisation and how to safeguard those who are vulnerable.
“At the end of the week, in advance of one of the busiest shopping weekends of the year, we will highlight useful information that will explain how to keep popular digital gift items safe from unwanted external influences.
“We recognise that in these times our relationship with the public – who we depend on for information about suspicious behaviour – needs to be stronger than ever before.
“We are advising the public not to be concerned about the things they are unable to control, but instead to focus on what they can do that will make a difference, and to make sure they know where to get information from the police in a crisis, whether it’s through social media or more traditional ways such as radio and TV.”