‘Threat Actors Have Recently Mobilized’: DHS Bulletin Warns of Possible Attacks

BREAKING–A Department of Homeland Security bulletin released on Tuesday highlights a range of possible targets, and warns of mounting threats as the midterm election season approaches.

The bulletin, posted through the National Terrorism Advisory System, said in the coming months, “we expect the threat environment to become more dynamic,” and notes that “several high-profile events could be exploited to justify acts of violence” against targets, including “public gatherings, faith-based institutions, schools, racial and religious minorities, government facilities and personnel, US critical infrastructure, the media, and perceived ideological opponents.”

DHS warned that people in certain online forums “have praised the May 2022 mass shooting at an elementary school in Uvalde, Texas and encouraged copycat attacks.” Others, they added, are spreading disinformation that the attack, which killed 19 children, was staged by the government to advance gun control measures.

The bulletin lists multiple other recent attacks that connect people with personal grievances, who follow extremist conspiracy theories, or who believe their personal ideologies are threatened to alarmingly increasing numbers of mass violence throughout the US.

“As the United States enters mid-term election season this year, we assess that calls for violence by domestic violent extremists directed at democratic institutions, political candidates, party offices, election events, and election workers will likely increase,” the bulletin said. It also cited reproductive healthcare personnel and facilities were also at heightened risk for violence.

The bulletin offered the following resources for Americans wishing to stay informed and prepared for such attacks:

• Be prepared for emergency situations and remain aware of circumstances that may place you at risk. Make note of your surroundings and the nearest security personnel.
• Keep yourself safe online and maintain digital and media literacy to recognize and build resilience to false or misleading narratives.
• Review DHS resources for how to better protect businesses, houses of worship, and schools, and ensure the safety of public gatherings.
• Prepare for potential active shooter incidents, as well as efforts to prevent, protect against, respond to, and mitigate the use of explosives.
• Learn more about community-based resources to help prevent individuals from radicalizing to violence.
• The Power of Hello Campaign helps you observe and evaluate suspicious behaviors, includes information to mitigate potential risks, and obtain help when necessary.

• If You See Something, Say Something®   Report suspicious activity and threats of violence, including online threats, to local law enforcement, FBI Field Offices, or your local Fusion Center. Call 911 in case of emergency.
• If you know someone who is struggling with mental health issues or may pose a danger to themselves or others, seek help.