Faith-Based Daily Awareness Post 2 October 2025

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. 

Manchester synagogue: Two dead in Manchester synagogue attack with suspect also believed to have been killed

Earlier this morning, a man drove a vehicle into pedestrians and then proceeded to stab people who had gathered for Yom Kippur at a synagogue in Greater Manchester, UK. Two victims were killed, and several others were seriously injured. Armed police arrived quickly and shot the suspected attacker, who is believed to have died though confirmation was delayed due to concerns about suspicious devices on the individual. The incident has been treated as a terror attack; authorities deployed bomb disposal teams and declared a major “PLATO” response, which UK authorities use to identify a “marauding terror attack”. The UK Prime Minister condemned the attack, ordered heightened security for Jewish sites nationwide, and returned from aboard to oversee the situation.

Analyst Comments: The Manchester synagogue attack shows the rise in antisemitic violence and the heightened hostility toward Jewish communities in recent years. The timing on Yom Kippur is seen as particularly symbolic, intended to maximize psychological harm and fear within the community. Using both a vehicle and knife alongside fear of explosives shows the challenges security and intelligence services face in preventing such threats. This is the second time in less than a week that a HOW has been targeted with a complex attack following the LDS Church attack in Michigan.

For several years we have seen hostile attacks around the globe which have been at least partly inspired or motivated by the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas. As was evident in the shooting at the Capital Jewish Museum of Washington, D.C. earlier this year, threat actors have shown to be unable, or unwilling to distinguish between the Israeli government and the Jewish community. We are tracking the outbreak of global protests related to the interception of the Gaza aid flotillia by Israeli forces. The incident represents another opportunity for misplaced aggression, and all Jewish communities are encouraged to review threat assessments and increase security postures as appropriate.

3 Hamas suspects arrested in Germany, accused of plotting attacks against Jews in the country

German authorities arrested three individuals on October 1^st in Berlin, suspecting them of planning terrorist attacks against Jewish and Israeli targets within Germany. The detainees identified were accused of being operatives for Hamas, a group designated as a foreign terrorist organization by the European Union, the United States, and Israel. During the arrest, authorities seized various weapons, including an AK-47 assault rifle, several pistols, and a significant amount of ammunition. Additional searches were conducted in Leipzig and Oberhausen as part of the investigation. The suspects are believed to have been active members of Hamas since at least the summer of 2025. They are scheduled to appear before the Federal Court of Justice, where judges will decide on formal arrest warrants and potential pre-trial detention. This operation shows the ongoing concerns over rising threats to Jewish communities and institutions in Germany amid the broader conflict between Hamas and Israel.

Analyst Comments: This arrest shows the risk of transnational terrorist networks attempting to conduct attacks within Europe, particularly targeting Jewish and Israeli communities. The seizure of firearms and ammunition indicates a high level of operational capability and intent, suggesting these individuals were actively preparing for violent actions. Germany’s swift law enforcement response demonstrates robust counterterrorism coordination, but the case also shows the persistent threat posed by extremist groups like Hamas, even outside conflict zones. Organizations may consider continued intelligence sharing across European countries and vigilance within communities that could be targeted, emphasizing that such plots often rely on small, highly motivated cells rather than large-scale operations.

Houses of worship tighten security amid rising number of attacks

Religious institutions across the U.S. are significantly ramping up security in response to a wave of attacks targeting HOWs. Leaders are now working with security professionals to install bulletproof window film, reinforce entryways, erect fences and bollards, and deploy sophisticated surveillance systems. Many congregations have begun conducting active-shooter drills, training for de-escalation, and equipping staff and volunteers with first aid and emergency response skills. Some Jewish organizations, considering heightened threats are reconsidering guidance on congregant carrying firearms.

Analyst Comments: HOWs may consider the threat for potential threats through a layered, proactive security approach that balances protection with openness. This means investing In practical measures like reinforced entryways, cameras, and perimeter barriers, while also training staff and volunteers in de-escalation, emergency response, and medical aid. Preparation should extend beyond technology by including active-shooter drills, clear communication plans, and close coordination with local law enforcement and security partners. HOWs should build resilience while still creating an environment where worshippers feel safe and welcome while still ensuring leaders and members are equipped to respond swiftly and effectively should a crisis occur.

FB-ISAO is a Cybersecurity Awareness Month Champion

October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month, and we’re joining the global effort to help everyone “Stay Safe Online.” In today’s digital world, cybersecurity isn’t just an IT concern, it’s everyone’s responsibility. Whether it’s protecting our company’s data, safeguarding customer information, or keeping our personal accounts secure, small actions make a big difference.

This year’s theme, “Stay Safe Online,” is a reminder that good cyber habits don’t have to be complicated or intimidating. Cybersecurity is achievable for everyone, and we’re here to support you in building confidence and awareness around the steps you can take to protect yourself and our organization.

Throughout October, we’ll be focusing on the Core 4, simple but powerful actions that everyone can take to strengthen our cybersecurity:

1. Use strong passwords and a password manager
2. Turn on multifactor authentication
3. Update your software
4. Recognize and report scams

You’ll see tips, activities, and resources shared each week, and we encourage you to participate, ask questions, and take advantage of everything being offered. There will also be opportunities to join in interactive events like a phishing challenge, educational webinars, and more.

Cybersecurity is a shared responsibility, and your engagement helps protect not only our company but also your personal and family data. Together, we can build a stronger, more secure digital environment—one small step at a time.