Faith-Based Daily Awareness Post 11 June 2026

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.

June Monthly Terrorism Update

UK-based terrorism reinsurer Pool Re’s June 2026 Monthly Terrorism Update assessed that the global terrorism threat environment remains complex and diverse, with incidents during May 2026 involving Islamist extremists, extreme right-wing actors, and individuals influenced by a combination of ideological grievances, online radicalization, and violent content. The report highlighted attacks and disrupted plots across Europe and North America, including incidents targeting Jewish and Muslim communities, demonstrating the continued threat posed by both ideologically motivated violence and hate-driven attacks.

The report identified three key trends shaping the current threat landscape. First, children and young adults remain particularly vulnerable to radicalization, often motivated by a desire for notoriety, belonging, or recognition. Second, the Islamic State continues to present a significant threat through its ability to inspire and influence individuals remotely, even when direct organizational involvement is limited. Third, low-sophistication attack methods including vehicle attacks, edged weapons, and arson remain the most likely forms of terrorist violence due to their low cost, simplicity, and minimal planning requirements. 

Analyst Comments: This report reinforces the continued threat posed by a diverse range of actors, including Islamist extremists, extreme right-wing extremists, and self-radicalized individuals influenced by online content. Of particular concern for faith-based organizations is the report’s observation that religious communities continue to be targeted by hate-motivated actors and ideologically driven extremists. The prevalence of low-sophistication attack methods increases the accessibility of violence for lone actors and underscores the importance of maintaining strong physical security, situational awareness, and suspicious activity reporting procedures.

Buffalo Grove pastor accused in $2M fraud scheme involving church investors

Federal prosecutors have charged pastor Winston Batino with wire fraud and filing false tax statements after alleging he raised approximately $2 million from about 40 investors, many of whom were members of his church community, for a drug and alcohol rehabilitation center that investigators say never actually existed. According to court documents, Batino promoted the project as an investment opportunity and convinced church members to contribute significant sums of money, including at least one investor who reportedly wired more than $144,000. Batino pleaded not guilty to the federal charges and was released on bond following his initial court appearance. If convicted, he faces up to 20 years in prison on the wire fraud charge, along with potential penalties related to the tax offense. 

The leadership of the Chicago Church of Christ stated that they first became aware of the alleged misconduct in May 2025 and immediately terminated Batino’s employment and fellowship with the church. Church officials commissioned an independent investigation led by a former federal prosecutor, which they say corroborated the allegations and found that Batino intentionally concealed his activities from church leadership. The church emphasized that the investigation found no evidence that the organization itself participated in or was complicit in the alleged scheme and said it has cooperated fully with law enforcement while continuing to support affected members of the congregation.

Analyst Comments: This case highlights the risks faith-based organizations face from affinity fraud, in which individuals exploit the trust and close-knit relationships present within a religious community for financial gain. According to the allegations, church members were persuaded to invest in a project that prosecutors claim did not exist, underscoring how trusted positions can be leveraged to lend credibility to fraudulent schemes. The incident also serves as a reminder that insider threats are not limited to physical security or cyber risks; trusted leaders, staff, volunteers, or other insiders can misuse their positions to conduct financial fraud and exploit congregants. Houses of worship should consider implementing appropriate safeguards, including financial oversight, segregation of duties, independent review of fundraising and investment-related activities, and clear reporting mechanisms for suspicious behavior. These measures can help reduce the risk that trusted individuals are able to abuse their access, authority, or influence for personal gain.