Faith-Based Daily Awareness Post 7 March 2025

Faith-Based Security Headlines

These updates are shared to help raise the situational awareness of Faith-Based organizations to best defend against and mitigate the impacts from all-hazards threats including physical security, cybersecurity, and natural disasters.

FBI PSA: Violent Online Networks Target Vulnerable and Underage Populations Across the United States and Around the Globe

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is warning the public of a sharp increase in the activity of “764” and other violent online networks which operate within the United States and around the globe. These networks methodically target and exploit minors and other vulnerable individuals, and it is imperative the public be made aware of the risk and the warning signs exhibited by victims. These networks use threats, blackmail, and manipulation to coerce or extort victims into producing, sharing, or live-streaming acts of self-harm, animal cruelty, sexually explicit acts, and/or suicide. The footage is then circulated among members of the network to continue to extort victims and exert control over them.

Analyst Comments: The internet offers easy access to violent content and communities, often hidden behind the layers of anonymity. These networks can be hard to track, with offenders concealing their true identities and tactics. Vulnerable or isolated children and minors are particularly at risk of stumbling upon or being lured into these environments, which can lead to exploitation. The FBI PDF is shared with FB-ISAO members in Slack. Faith-based organizations are encouraged to discuss these threats with their communities to raise awareness, and to contact local authorities for any suspicious activity.

Virginia man found guilty of hate crime for thwarted church shooting plot

A Virginia man, Rui Jiang, was found guilty of a hate crime and several other charges related to a thwarted church shooting plot in Haymarket, Virginia. In September 2023, Jiang posted online threats indicating his intention to attack a church during Sunday services. He was found armed at the church with a semiautomatic handgun, two loaded magazines, and additional ammunition. Jiang had planned to kill churchgoers, but was apprehended before he could carry out the attack. He faces up to life in prison when sentenced in June 2025.

Analyst Comments: Attacks on places of worship, intended to be sanctuaries of peace and community, highlight serious concerns about safety in these spaces. This incident underscores the importance of implementing strong security measures in churches, synagogues, mosques, and other religious institutions. For organizations looking to boost their resilience against potential hostile attacks like the one Jiang attempted, we recommend reviewing the Physical Security Performance Goals for Faith-Based Communities developed in partnership with CISA.

As always, FB-ISAO’s website has valuable resources at Resource Library – FB-ISAO

Measles Outbreak SPOTREP #1

As of February 27, 2025, there have been 164 measles cases across 9 states in the U.S., with Texas reporting the highest number (159 cases by March 4). Many of these cases are in children aged 0-17, and 50% of those affected are unvaccinated. Tragically, one unvaccinated child has died. The CDC has sent Epidemic Intelligence Service officers to Texas to support local health efforts, including educating communities and increasing vaccine availability.

The outbreak could strain healthcare systems, leading to more hospitalizations and higher vaccine demand, potentially delaying non-measles care. It may also impact the supply chain, with potential delays in vaccine production and a higher need for PPE and infection control supplies. States are urged to monitor the situation, forecast supply needs, and strengthen vaccination efforts and infection control measures.

Analyst Comments: As the outbreak continues, there is a significant risk of healthcare systems being overwhelmed. Hospitalization rates are likely to rise, putting pressure on both hospital capacity and resources. At the same time, a surge in vaccine demand could create production delays, worsening the situation.

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More Faith-Based Stories

NY: Grinning maniac thought he was ‘Hitler reincarnated,’ made twisted promise before threats to shoot up NYC synagogue: prosecutors.

AZ: Man in custody for arson after fire at Casa Grande Jewish community center

CT: Hartford police investigating theft allegations against priest at Holy Trinity Church

Two Suspected Arson Incidents Target Rabbi Forchheimer’s Shul In Lakewood This Week

MA: Neighbors in Wayland outraged by antisemitic vandalism – NBC Boston

MA: Nazi Symbol Appears at Communal Pool in Massachusetts

CA: Federal Antisemitism Complaints Filed Against Three California Schools – Scripps, Cal Poly, and Etiwanda District

CAIR-CA Releases New Report Examining the Suppression of Students’ First Amendment Rights on College Campuses

Colorado pastor arrested on child sex assault charges

Trump’s foreign aid demolition hits major Christian charities