Tag: house of worship

Faith-Based Daily Awareness Post 12 February 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.
Weekly Security Sprint EP 98. A few of our favorite things: EAP, Ransomware, Phishing and more!
The Gate 15 Security Sprint is a weekly rundown of the week’s notable all-hazards security news, risks and threats and some of the key focus areas for organizations to consider behind the headlines. Gate 15 team members discuss physical security, cybersecurity, natural hazards, health threats and other issues across our environment.
In this week’s Security Sprint, Dave and Andy covered the following topics:
CISA Active Assailant Emergency Action Plan Template and Instructional Guide
Ransomware & Data Breaches
Scams
Information on other Gate 15 podcasts can be found at here.
The Risk of a Taiwan Invasion Is Rising Fast
Inskit Group is recommending that businesses begin making preparatory investments to establish contingency plans in case of a potential Taiwan invasion, particularly if they have operations in Taiwan or China, or rely heavily on Asian supply chains and shipping. Companies based in regions likely to oppose China’s political objectives are especially at risk. While the likelihood of a short-term invasion (2025-2026) currently remains low, the factors shaping Inskit Group’s assessment are rapidly evolving. Starting in 2027 and continuing through the long term (2027-2049), the risk of an invasion is expected to significantly increase, though it is not guaranteed.
Analyst Comments:
Although the immediate threat of a Taiwan invasion is low, the risk of escalation is expected to rise considerably after 2027. Those with operations in the region or reliance on Asian supply chains, should take proactive steps to assess and manage long-term risks. Faith-Based organizations with missions or operations in the region should assess and address long-term risks. Additionally, China-based cyber threat actors are targeting US critical infrastructure in ways that suggest their goal is to pre-position for a potential conflict. We continue to see Faith-Based organizations, as well as non-profits, targeted by ransomware threat actors, which could also increase if China decides to sow mass chaos and uncertainty leading up to a potential conflict.
California Teenager Sentenced to 48 Months in Prison for Nationwide Swatting Spree
Alan W. Filion, an 18-year-old from Lancaster, California, was sentenced to 48 months in prison for making over 375 swatting and threat calls from August 2022 to January 2024. These calls targeted religious institutions, schools, and individuals across the U.S., falsely claiming bombs, mass shootings, and dangerous weapons. Filion’s actions caused police and emergency responders to divert attention from other critical incidents. He also made threats for both profit and amusement advertising his “swatting” services online. Filion was arrested in January 2024 after making a threat involving firearms and explosives.
Analyst Comments:
The teenager’s swatting campaign involved threats against religious institutions, emphasizing the susceptibility of Faith-Based organizations to online threats. This serves as a reminder for Faith-Based organizations to stay vigilant. We continue to see swatting and hoax threats target the Faith-Based community. We encourage the community to review our “Attacks on Houses of Worship: 2023 Year in Review” if you have not already, and be on the look out for 2024’s report.
For more resources on securing facilities and safeguarding students, the FB-ISAO resource library provides a variety of helpful materials, which can be accessed here. The Threat Assessment and Reporting | SchoolSafety.gov website provides resources to assist in “Identifying, reporting, and addressing safety concerns can help reduce the threat of targeted violence and enhance student safety.”
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FB-ISAO Newsletter, v7, Issue 2
IL: Illinois church branded hateful for ‘Heaven has strict immigration laws’ sign amid immigration row
Religious Groups Sue Trump Admin Over Immigration Arrests at Churches
Religious Groups Sue Homeland Security Over Immigration Arrests
Case: Mennonite Church USA v. U.S. Department of Homeland Security
United Methodists join suit against Trump policy
US Latino churches lock doors amid growing fears of pastor deportations
Appeals court rejects Trump administration push to reinstate spending freezes on grants and loans

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President Trump Announces the President’s Intelligence Advisory Board
Trump administration removes career DOJ official as head of national security division
Trump picks Sean Cairncross for national cyber director
State Department’s top data and AI official departs
Insider threats loom as Elon Musk’s team gains swift government access
Lawsuit accuses Trump administration of violating federal information security law.
Is DOGE a Cybersecurity Threat? Explaining the Dangers of Violating Protocols and Regulations That Protect Government Computer Systems
Judge extends pause on ‘deferred resignation’ deadline.
ICE Wants To Know If You’re Posting Negative Things About It Online
Hilton class action alleges hotel chain tracks website users
Judge orders CDC, FDA to restore websites taken down after Trump gender order
Trump’s W.H.O. Exit Throws Smallpox Defenses Into Upheaval
NWS: Potential Winter Storm in the Centeral U.S.; Heavy Rain and Severe Thunderstorms in the Southeast

More Security-focused Content

Attacks on Houses of Worship in 2023

Read the March 2024 Threat Level Statement Update

Access all-hazards resources from public and private sector partners, curated by the FB-ISAO team.

The FB-ISAO’s sponsor Gate 15 publishes a daily newsletter called the SUN. Curated from their open source intelligence collection process, the SUN informs leaders and analysts with the critical news of the day and provides a holistic look at the current global, all-hazards threat environment. Ahead of the daily news cycle, the SUN allows current situational awareness into the topics that will impact your organization. To sign-up for the SUN, send an email to [email protected].
Learn More About Gate 15’s Enhanced Intel Solutions
February 12, 2025
Faith-Based Daily Awareness Post 11 February 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.
Singapore detains teenage ‘East Asian supremacist’ for planning attacks on Malays, Muslims
Nick Lee Xing Qui, an ethnic Chinese Singaporean, was radicalized online and sought to carry out an attack similar to the one in Christchurch-style attack, investigators said. An 18-year-old Singaporean student who identified as an “East Asian supremacist” and was radicalized by violent far-right extremist ideologies has been detained under Singapore’s Internal Security Act. Nick Lee Xing Qui, who is of Chinese ethnicity, had aspired to conduct attacks against Malays and Muslims in Singapore. He believed that the Chinese, Korean and Japanese ethnicities were superior, the Internal Security Department said on Monday. Lee was issued with a detention order in December last year. He is the third Singaporean youth with far-right extremist ideologies to be dealt with under the city state’s Internal Security Act.
Analyst comments:
FB-ISAO recently published a Weekly Report that examined juvenile extremists given some of the recent events around the globe. If you are interested in becoming a member of FB-ISAO, you can learn more here.
Related articles:
Singapore detains teen who ‘aspired’ to kill Muslims, mirroring New Zealand mosque attack
Ransomware Gangs Increasingly Prioritize Speed and Volume in Attacks
In 2024, advanced evasion tactics became the new norm for ransomware groups, with entities like Lynx, Akira, and RandsomHub becoming more agile. Instead of targeting high-profile organizations, these groups adopted a quantity-over-quality strategy, rapidly hitting a larger number of businesses. According to Huntress’ 2025 Cyber Threat Report, this shift is evident in their speed, with the average time-to-ransom (TTR) being just under 17 hours, but groups like Akria and RansomHub deploying ransomware in as little as six hours.
Analyst comments:
FB-ISAO continues to monitor ransomware incidents impacting the faith-based community. ISAO members have access to a daily ransomware report which highlights which ransomware threat actors are targeting the community. Members are encouraged to review the report to understand trends,
Winter Storm Warning Issued for 11 States as More Snow Forecast
By early Tuesday morning, winter storm warnings were issued for several states, including Kansas, Iowa, Missouri, Kentucky, Virginia, Maryland, West Virginia, Delaware, New Jersey, Ohio, and Nebraska. According to the National Weather Service (NWS), these warnings are issued when a significant mix of hazardous winter weather is either occurring or expected soon. Snowfall was predicted for these regions, with localized snow accumulations potentially reaching up to 10 inches in certain areas, including ridges of central, northwest, and western Virginia, and eastern West Virginia.
Analyst comments:
Being #WinterReady means understanding winter risks you face and taking steps now to prepare. Ready.gov offers several resources to help prepare your organization and people for winter weather.
Related articles:
NWS: Winter Storms in the Central and Eastern U.S.; Heavy Rain in the Southeast

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(CA): Man arrested, accused of burglary after Rancho Cordova church destroyed in fire
Video shows person crawling into Rancho Cordova church before it went up in flames; arrest made
(TN): WATCH: Pastor Calls For Violence Against Elon Musk And DOGE
(CO): “City issued ‘Cease & Desist’ over Housing the Unhoused,” according to church officials
(SD): Legal immunity bills for off-duty law officers, church security teams turned down
Most Evangelicals say US has ‘moral responsibility’ to accept refugees: poll.
A Tunisian extremist is on trial accused of killing 3 people in a French church

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US cyber agency puts election security staffers who worked with the states on leave
State election officials wonder why U.S. cybersecurity agency skipped their meetings
Judge says Trump administration violating order to lift spending freeze
Apple fixes iPhone and iPad bug used in an ‘extremely sophisticated attack.’
Trump’s Complicated Effect on the Office Market;
Resilience and Strategy: Preparing Real Estate for 2025 Risks
Claims of marijuana testing lab fraud hit New York’s $1 billion adult-use market
Apple and Google take down malicious mobile apps from their app stores
Flu season in the US is the most intense it’s been in at least 15 years
Trump’s mass deportation plans spark panic in the Caribbean amid fake news;
In Paris, JD Vance skewers EU AI rules, lauds US tech supremacy
Trump threatens to end Gaza Ceasefire if hostages are not released by noon Saturday

More Security-focused Content

Attacks on Houses of Worship in 2023

Read the March 2024 Threat Level Statement Update

Access all-hazards resources from public and private sector partners, curated by the FB-ISAO team.

The FB-ISAO’s sponsor Gate 15 publishes a daily newsletter called the SUN. Curated from their open source intelligence collection process, the SUN informs leaders and analysts with the critical news of the day and provides a holistic look at the current global, all-hazards threat environment. Ahead of the daily news cycle, the SUN allows current situational awareness into the topics that will impact your organization. To sign-up for the SUN, send an email to [email protected].
Learn More About Gate 15’s Enhanced Intel Solutions

February 11, 2025
Faith-Based Daily Awareness Post 10 February 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.
Establishment of the White House Faith Office
This article discusses the creation of the White House Faith Office, established by an executive order on February 7, 2025. This office is designed to strengthen Faith-Based organizations, community groups, and religious institutions in their efforts to assist American families and communities. Its stated goal is to ensure these groups have fair access to federal funding, grants, and contracts, while also protecting religious freedom. The office will oversee coordination across federal agencies, offer training to Faith-Based organizations, and address issues related to religious rights and involvement in government programs.
FB-ISAO will continue to monitor operational transitions with the new Administration, and will report on updates that are relevant for the faith-based community as a whole.
CISA Region 8 is hosting a Faith-Based Security Resources Webinar in February
This webinar provides an overview of general resources and services available to places of worship for strengthening security and promoting resilience for our faith-based communities.
Event Information
Date: February 19, 2025
Time: 3:00 – 4:00 pm MST
Registration Link: Faith-Based Security Resources Webinar
Free Tools to Aid in Combating Cyber Threats
This article highlights the importance of combating cyber threats like phishing and identity theft, offering tools to protect against these risks. It introduced DefendMe AI, a free browser extension that provides real-time phishing protection and monitors the dark web for any exposure of personal information. The tool uses AI and global threat intelligence to detect and block phishing attempts, enhancing online safety. It also notifies users if their data is found on the dark web.
Analyst Comments:
This article emphasizes the importance of using such tools to protect both personal and organizational data. By using these free resources, individuals can strengthen their cybersecurity defenses and contribute to a safer digital environment for the community. We want to remind the community that we maintain a list of both physical and cybersecurity resources on the FB-ISAO website, which can be accessed here.
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(NY) 2 Jewish Men Injured in Attempted Stabbing Attack in Crown Heights
(NY) Mentally Ill Individual Attempts To Cut Off Jewish Man’s Ear In Crown Heights
(NY) Jewish New Yorker Assaulted on Subway
(NY) Burglar hits Staten Island church three times in a month, stealing $9K in equipment
(OH) Nazi Group Hangs Swastika Flags on Ohio Overpass
(OH) Neo-Nazis chased out of Greater Cincinnati, local residents set swastika flag ablaze
(OH) Ohio city files federal lawsuit against alleged neo-Nazi group
(TX) NW Houston churches say students at nearby schools are vandalizing their property and setting fires
(FL) Jacksonville pastors say they would have helped ‘serial church burglar’
SCN Bulletin: Threat Landscape for Jewish Executive Leadership — Nationwide
Attacks on Catholics, Lutherans suggest new Trump approach on religion
What To Do If ICE Comes To Your Church
(FL) Florida politician doubles down on claims that Muslims don’t belong in America
ADL: Mis- and Disinformation Trends and Tactics to Watch in 2025

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Exclusive – Chinese Spy Balloon Was Packed With American Tech
Looting and fires break out in Philadelphia after Eagles win Super Bowl
A US Treasury Threat Intelligence Analysis Designates DOGE Staff as ‘Insider Threat.’
Federal judge blocks Elon Musk’s DOGE from accessing sensitive US Treasury Department material
Government Security Professionals Grapple with Following Procedure Amid DOGE Demands
Teen on Musk’s DOGE Team Graduated from ‘The Com.’
Lawmakers unite to push forward Cyber Force
The Far-Right Group Building A List Of Pro-Palestine Activists To Deport;
FBI Announces Nationwide Crackdown on South American Theft Groups
(NWS) Lake-Effect Snow Downwind of Lake Ontario; Cold Temperatures in the Across the Northern High Plains
Four ways to avoid scams after a weather-related disaster.
US sees no let-up in rising flu activity
Measles outbreak erupts in one of Texas’ least-vaccinated counties
New Report Examines the Slick New Face of Digital Fraud
Spain arrests 5, including 2 Russians, on charges of plotting terrorist attacks across Europe

More Security-focused Content

Attacks on Houses of Worship in 2023

Read the March 2024 Threat Level Statement Update

Access all-hazards resources from public and private sector partners, curated by the FB-ISAO team.

The FB-ISAO’s sponsor Gate 15 publishes a daily newsletter called the SUN. Curated from their open source intelligence collection process, the SUN informs leaders and analysts with the critical news of the day and provides a holistic look at the current global, all-hazards threat environment. Ahead of the daily news cycle, the SUN allows current situational awareness into the topics that will impact your organization. To sign-up for the SUN, send an email to [email protected].
Learn More About Gate 15’s Enhanced Intel Solutions
February 10, 2025
Faith-Based Daily Awareness Post 7 February 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.
Tracker: Over 400 Attacks on U.S. Catholic Churches Since May 2020
The tracker includes incidents of vandalism, arson, and other forms of attacks against Catholic churches in the United States. This article tracks and highlights the number of such incidents over a specific period since May 2020. Notable incidents occurring in New York, California, and Texas. Many of these attacks have targeted church property, with graffiti often carrying pro-abortion messages.
Analyst comments:
Many pro-choice inspired attacks came after the Supreme Court’s Dobbs v. Jackson decision in 2022. It highlights how current events, particularly ones of related to sensitive social topics, can alter the threat landscape. Organizations are encouraged to consider what triggers may require adjustments to their threat assessments. CISA offers several resources which could be helpful including the Houses of Worship Security Self-Assessment.
CISA Active Assailant Emergency Action Plan
These resources offer practical guidance for organizations and venue operators to help users create a thorough and actionable Emergency Action Plan (EAP).
Along with a customizable, fillable EAP template and an accompanying instructional guide, these new tools also include various other relevant resources, neatly organized to correspond with each section of an EAP. Designed for security planners at facilities and venues of any size, these products aim to support effective planning and implementation.
Other resources:
Active Assailant Emergency Action Plan Template
Instructional Guide to the CISA EAP Template
Analyst Comments:
The Product Suite offers vital resources for creating effective action plans for responding to active shooter situations. For Faith-Based organizations, this suite provides tools to ensure preparedness in houses of worship. These resources are tailored for venues of all sizes, and Faith-Based communities can leverage the comprehensive guidelines to develop and implement security measures, protecting congregants and staff while ensuring that recovery processes are well-planned.
Coalition of US states to file lawsuit after Musk’s DOGE gains access to Americans’ personal data
A group of more than a dozen U.S. states is preparing to file a lawsuit aimed at preventing billionaire Elon Musk’s cost-cutting team from gaining access to sensitive federal government payment systems that contain personal data of Americans. In a brief statement from 13 Democratic state attorneys general, including those from California, Connecticut, Maine, Maryland, and New York, the coalition announced their intent to take legal action “to protect our Constitution, our right to privacy, and the crucial funding that individuals and communities across the country rely on.”
Analyst Comments:
States’ concerns might center on the risks of private entities like Elon Musk’s companies gaining access to sensitive federal systems, particularly given the growing use of digital currencies. Earlier this week we saw anti-Trump protests at state capitols across the U.S. The potential for litigation will only continue to fuel the tensions. CISA offers resources to help enhance personal and organizational security during civil unrest.
Related articles:
Attorney General Tong Releases Statement on DOGE Access to Sensitive Personal Information
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WA: Priest attacked during church service for healing says he didn’t know assailant
Man caught on video attacking priest at Washington church; cathedral hires extra security
WA: Issaquah police seek suspects in antisemitic, anti-LGBTQ+ graffiti incidents
OR: Jewish Center Defaced in Oregon
CA: Synagogue, church in San Diego’s Bankers Hill vandalized for 2nd time
TX: El Paso Jewish community is ‘being targeted,’ rabbi claims after two synagogues vandalized & 2 El Paso synagogues vandalized with Nazi symbols, investigated as potential hate crime
CT: Threatening Antisemitic Message Discovered Inside Fake Skull in Connecticut Neighborhood
MI: CAIR-MI Welcomes Ethnic Intimidation Charge for St. Clair Shores Man for Alleged Death Threats Targeting CAIR-MI Office, Executive Director
IN: CAIR Designates Indiana University as a ‘Hostile Campus’ for Targeting Anti-Genocide Students and Faculty
Executive Order: Eradicating Anti-Christian Bias
IHOPKC’s Mike Bickle allegedly made abuse victim read Psalm 51 after sexual encounters: report
Data Breach Notification: San Francisco-Marin Food Bank
Data Breach Notification: Hospital Sisters Health Systems (“HSHS”)
Men accused of ‘disgraceful’ display of Nazi flag near Sydney Jewish Museum in Darlinghurst
Australia passes tough hate crime laws with mandatory jail time for Nazi salutes

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DHS: Internet-connected cameras made in China may be used to spy on US infrastructure: DHS.
Executive Order: Imposing Sanctions On The International Criminal Court
Elon Musk’s DOGE is feeding sensitive federal data into AI to target cuts
Trump administration disbands task force targeting Russian oligarchs
FBI Philadelphia Warns of Romance Scams Ahead of Valentine’s Day
U.S. Government Disclosed 39 Zero-Day Vulnerabilities in 2023, Per First-Ever Report
Ranking Member Thompson Statement on Trump Attempting to Fire FEC Commissioner
Account Compromise Arms Race: The Rise of Phishing-as-a-Service
Man accused of pouring gas on Las Vegas casino floor faces terror-related charge.
CRE Principals and Investors On How to Actually Use AI in the Everyday
Meta launches new program to improve speech and translation AI
New Facebook Copyright Infringement Phishing Campaign
Experts Flag Security, Privacy Risks in DeepSeek AI App.
Nine states report more avian flu in poultry, including more layer farms
Measles Outbreak Mounts Among Children in One of Texas’ Least Vaccinated Counties
NWS: Pacific Storm Impacts the West Through Friday; Series of Storms to Impact the Central and Eastern U.S. into Next Week
North Korean hackers deploy FlexibleFerret malware to target macOS developers
U.K. orders Apple to let it spy on users’ encrypted accounts

More Security-focused Content

Attacks on Houses of Worship in 2023

Read the March 2024 Threat Level Statement Update

Access all-hazards resources from public and private sector partners, curated by the FB-ISAO team.

The FB-ISAO’s sponsor Gate 15 publishes a daily newsletter called the SUN. Curated from their open source intelligence collection process, the SUN informs leaders and analysts with the critical news of the day and provides a holistic look at the current global, all-hazards threat environment. Ahead of the daily news cycle, the SUN allows current situational awareness into the topics that will impact your organization. To sign-up for the SUN, send an email to [email protected].
Learn More About Gate 15’s Enhanced Intel Solutions
February 7, 2025
Faith-Based Daily Awareness Post 6 February 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.
How ISIS and Al-Qaeda Using AI to Target American Jews
The Digital Safety Coalition told Newsweek that artificial intelligence (AI) has amplified content used by lone-wolf terrorists affiliated with ISIS and AI-Qaeda, targeting Jewish communities in the United States.
Marc Ginsberg, former U.S. ambassador and president of the Coalition for a Safer Web, states, “The trend is unmistakable. This represents a new level of threat that I don’t think anyone fully grasps or appreciates the sophistication of the penetration operation involved.”
Analyst Comments:
The use of artificial intelligence by groups like ISIS and Al-Qaeda is a troubling development, as it allows them to disseminate radicalizing content more effectively and on a broader scale. It is important to track how AI is being used to bypass traditional content moderation techniques and assess the potential threats this poses to national security.
Faith-based organizations could be especially vulnerable to the dangers of AI-driven content, as members of these communities may encounter highly convincing extremist materials. Faith-based organizations may want to consider how to evaluate how AI-enhanced propaganda affects at-risk individuals within religious groups.
Network security fundamentals
The Network Security Fundamentals guide by the UK’s National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) provides essential principles for securing networks, focusing on protecting data and systems from unauthorized access or disruption.
The guidance covers the following areas:
Identifying your Assets
Understanding the threat
Restricting access
Designing network architecture
Protecting data in transit
Securing network perimeters
Updating systems
Monitoring networks
Analyst comments:
Faith-based organizations frequently handle sensitive information such as member details, donations, and other activities. Following the NCSC’s guidance on network security fundamentals can be a positive step towards safeguarding this data against cyber threats. Maintaining the confidentiality and accessibility of their digital assets is vital for preserving trust and confidence within their communities.
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WA: ‘All of us were pretty shaken’: Security camera captures attack on Spokane priest during service
OK: Vandals cause $20k in damages at Tulsa church, pastor says
OR: Mezuzah torn down at Portland Jewish Center, rabbi says
FL: Man believed to be responsible for at least 8 church break-ins in Northwest Jacksonville arrested
Churches educating congregants on how to respond if ICE shows up
Washington State Bill Would Force Catholic Priests To Violate Church
Australia’s hate crime law gives Nazi salutes mandatory jail
Australian man charged for calling org and making antisemitic comments

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Trump’s Sweeping Expulsions Have Sent the FBI Into Chaos
In reversal, CISA workforce now permitted to take deferred resignation offer
K9s, snipers and BearCats: How New Orleans is prepping to keep the Super Bowl safe
Joining US, Canada designates Mexican cartels as terrorist organizations
Beware of fake Reddit solutions delivering dangerous malware.
The Hidden Risks of Public Wi-Fi Networks: A Guide for Laptop Users
Trump wants a TikTok deal. China may pull the plug.
Behind the arson arrests during the firestorm: Cases reveal L.A.’s burning problem
Cows Have Been Infected With a Second Form of Bird Flu
NWS: A Series of Storms Will Impact the Central and Eastern U.S. into Early Next Week; Pacific Storms Continue to Impact the West

More Security-focused Content

Attacks on Houses of Worship in 2023

Read the March 2024 Threat Level Statement Update

Access all-hazards resources from public and private sector partners, curated by the FB-ISAO team.

The FB-ISAO’s sponsor Gate 15 publishes a daily newsletter called the SUN. Curated from their open source intelligence collection process, the SUN informs leaders and analysts with the critical news of the day and provides a holistic look at the current global, all-hazards threat environment. Ahead of the daily news cycle, the SUN allows current situational awareness into the topics that will impact your organization. To sign-up for the SUN, send an email to [email protected].
Learn More About Gate 15’s Enhanced Intel Solutions
February 6, 2025
Faith-Based Daily Awareness Post 5 February 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.
Weekly Security Sprint EP 97. DeepSeek Al, Ransomware report, and more
The Gate 15 Security Sprint is a weekly rundown of the week’s notable all-hazards security news, risks and threats and some of the key focus areas for organizations to consider behind the headlines. Gate 15 team members discuss physical security, cybersecurity, natural hazards, health threats and other issues across our environment.
In this week’s Security Sprint, Dave and Andy covered the following topics:
Ransomware: NCC Group releases Annual Cyber Threat Monitor Report 2024
DeepSeek
CISA employees told they are exempt from federal worker resignation program & Alarmed by Chinese hacks, Republicans mute attacks on cybersecurity agency
The above Gate 15 Weekly Security Sprint website also provides links to many security-related items of interest.
Information on other Gate 15 podcasts can be found at Podcasts (gate15.global).
The Gate 15 Interview EP 54. Brandon Dixon on Artificial Intelligence, getting your hands dirty & long, long runs
The Gate 15 Interview is a monthly interview between Gate 15’s Founder and Managing Director, Andy Jabbour and guests from throughout the homeland security risk management community addressing a wide range of all-hazards topics and issues.
In this episode of The Gate 15 Interview, Andy Jabbour speaks with Brandon Dixon. Brandon has worn many hats, from security engineer to entrepreneur. Today, he serves at a Partner AI Strategist for Microsoft, Strategic Advisory and Partner with NinjaJobs, and is a tremendous athlete.
In this discussion Andy and Brandon discuss:
Brandon’s Background.
Three “Big Things” in AI Brandon’s paying attention to in 2025.
Entrepreneurship: “Make sure the idea is something you personally care about.”
The value of falling short.
Roasting Coffee
Fitness: from BMX to ultras.
We play Three Questions! Whippets, Big Sky, and long runs.
More!
Information on other Gate 15 podcasts can be found at Podcasts (gate15.global).
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More Faith-Based Stories
New York Man Pleads Guilty to Hate Crime for Threatening Jewish Synagogue in Albany. (Incident with shotgun occurred in December 2023)
NY: NYPD Searching For Antisemitic Vandal for Defacing Washington Square with Swastikas (First Incident Occurred January 21^st)
Israel-Hamas Ceasefire Sparks Fresh Wave of Antisemitism, Support for Terror from U.S. Anti-Zionist Activists
DC: ‘Retribution is inevitable’: Proud Boys leader plans to defy judge who stripped group of trademark in fight with vandalized Black church (Incident occurred in 2020)
Lutheran groups push back on Elon Musk’s allegation tax dollars were used for ‘illegal’ activity
Some Jewish leaders renew calls for X boycott as Musk’s power grows
Church Leaders Help Define The Role Of AI In Ministry
‘Shoot Jews or hand them over to Hamas!’: Antisemitic demonstration, police inaction in Berlin spark outrage
Anglican Church in South Africa admits failures in handling of sexual abuse claims

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Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Restores Maximum Pressure on Iran and National Security Presidential Memorandum/NSPM-2
Sweden’s worst mass shooting leaves at least 11 dead, including the gunman
Criminal Groups Are Ramping Up Explosives in Mexico
Bruce Foster ID’d as suspect in ‘targeted’ shooting at Ohio cosmetics warehouse that killed one, injured five (Workplace Violence)
Protests:
Protests against Trump and Project 2025 are planned in cities across the US.
Police in riot gear face-off with protesters in downtown Los Angeles
‘Nobody Elected Elon’ protest held in D.C.
Multiple ICE impersonation arrests made during nationwide immigration crackdown
The CIA Is About to Get a Trump Makeover; Spy agency’s workforce receives buyout-style offer & Trump’s CIA Offers Buyouts to All Its Workers
DOJ: White Supremacist Leader Found Guilty of Conspiring to Destroy Regional Power Grid (Occurred 2022)
DOJ: Member of Al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula Sentenced to 44 Years in Prison for Terrorism Offenses (Occurred 2011)
Turkey, Iraq, Syria, Jordan aim to jointly tackle Islamic State, Ankara says
Pacific Storms Continuing to Impact the West; Impactful Winter Storm in the Central and Eastern U.S. National Weather Service
The Alarming Rise of DeepSeek Scams
AI Influencer Platform Promises Users Thousands of Dollars in Likely Passive Income Scam
Investors, Trump and the Illuminati: What the “Nigerian prince” scams became in 2024
Superseding Indictment Charges Chinese National in Relation to Alleged Plan to Steal Proprietary AI Technology.
More Security-focused Content

Attacks on Houses of Worship in 2023

Read the March 2024 Threat Level Statement Update

Access all-hazards resources from public and private sector partners, curated by the FB-ISAO team.

The FB-ISAO’s sponsor Gate 15 publishes a free daily newsletter called the SUN. Curated from their open source intelligence collection process, the SUN informs leaders and analysts with the critical news of the day and provides a holistic look at the current global, all-hazards threat environment. Ahead of the daily news cycle, the SUN allows current situational awareness into the topics that will impact your organization. To sign-up for the SUN, send an email to [email protected].
Learn More About Gate 15’s Enhanced Intel Solutions
February 5, 2025
Faith-Based Daily Awareness Post 4 February 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.
Justice Department Announces Formation of Task Force to Combat Anti-Semitism
From the US Department of Justice (DOJ) press release:
Pursuant to President Trump’s Executive Order on Additional Measures to Combat Anti-Semitism, the Justice Department announced today the formation of a multi-agency Task Force to Combat Anti-Semitism. The Task Force’s first priority will be to root out anti-Semitic harassment in schools and on college campuses.
In addition to the Department of Justice, the Task Force will include representatives from the U.S. Department of Education, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, and other agencies as it develops. The Task Force will be coordinated through the Department’s Civil Rights Division.
“Anti-Semitism in any environment is repugnant to this Nation’s ideals,” said Senior Counsel to the Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights Leo Terrell, who will be heading the Task Force. “The Department takes seriously our responsibility to eradicate this hatred wherever it is found. The Task Force to Combat Anti-Semitism is the first step in giving life to President Trump’s renewed commitment to ending anti-Semitism in our schools.”
Related Items:
Executive Order: Additional Measures to Combat Anti-Semitism
HHS’ Civil Rights Office Acts Swiftly to Combat Anti-Semitism (Investigations will examine medical schools.)
Analyst Comments:
Reports of antisemitism can be made to the DOJ at Contact the Civil Rights Division.
2025 Homeland Security Threat Forecast: Part III, The Multidimensional Threats
Homeland Security Today has released Part III, The Multidimensional Threats, of their 2025 Homeland Security Threat Forecast. The total forecast covers Terrorism, Advanced Technology, and Multidimensional Threats.
The 29 January 2025 Daily Awareness Post highlighted Part I, Terrorism.
On 30 January, Homeland Security Today released Part II, Cyber & Advanced Technology of 2025 Homeland Security Threat Forecast.
Part III, The Multidimensional Threats details the following multidimensional threats:
Array of Threats: Drugs, HVEs, Border Security
Emergency Management
Variety of Threats Call for Coordination and Investment
Biological Threat Outlook
Insider Threat and the Vulnerability of Infrastructure
Illegal, Unregulated, Unreported Fishing
Supply Chain Security
Our Financial Market, Critical Infrastructure and Biotechnology
Chemical Security
Complex Risks Ahead for Homeland Security in 2025
Physical, Cyber, Information Operations – Threats
Thinking Globally, Acting Locally: Securing America Against Emerging Threats
Vulnerabilities in our Healthcare System
Human Trafficking
The Converging Nature of Terrorism, Cyber and Internal Threats
Analyst Comments:
Reviewing Part I, Terrorism, Part II, Cyber & Advanced Technology, and Part III, The Multidimensional Threats can assist Faith-Based Organizations with knowing possible threats to their organization, assessing their organizations risk, and developing cost and time-efficient security plans and procedures.
Reminders of This Week’s FB-ISAO Events
For information on these and other events, go to Events – FB-ISAO.
Wednesday, 05 February 2025
Standing Up Security Teams: Selecting and Recruiting Your Operations Team
During this session we will discuss screening potential team members for alignment with the organization’s mission and culture. Those traits can include the team members’ proper mindset, aptitude, character and disposition.
Date: 05 February 2025
Time: 12pm ET
To register: please visit our events page.
Thursday, 06 February 2025
Discussion on ISIS-Related Plots in Europe and the Potential for Similar Targeting in the Homeland
Join the FB-ISAO and John Cohen (Executive Director of the Program for Countering Hybrid Threats at the Center for Internet Security) for a discussion on the topic of ISIS-Related Plots.
This discussion is open to all; however, registration is required. Members of FB-ISAO will have first dibs on virtual seats to attend the discussion. We encourage members to register by 30 January to guarantee a seat. Non-members will be allowed to register for a limited number of slots after 30 January.
Date: 06 February 2025
Time: 11am ET
Register here.
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More Faith-Based Stories
TN: Churches across Clarksville damaged in vandalism spree
KS: Crime Stoppers looking for Eastside Faith Center vandals
OR: ‘We will protect you’: Portland church maintains sanctuary for undocumented immigrants amid Trump’s crackdown
When ICE Comes to Church
Religious Liberty at Risk: Protecting the Right to Preach Without Political Retribution
San Francisco must rehire Christian employees fired for refusing COVID shot: court
MO: Church Security Conference Seeks to Reduce Community Related Violence
TX: Affidavit: Former Mineola pastor assaulted church member in office (Arrest document states sexual assault took place in 2022.)
UT: Former LDS church bishop charged with alleged sexual assault of minor (Charges say occurred in 2007 and 2008.)
NC: Former church daycare worker charged with assaulting children (Police say incident occurred in 2024.)
Christian employee group at US state department unexpectedly suspended
ADL: Hate in the Cascade States: Extremism & Antisemitism in Oregon & Washington
Proud Boys Lose Control of Their Name to a Black Church They Vandalized (Burned Black Lives Matter banner in 2020)
Swedish government says Stockholm mosque used by Iran for spying
Man found guilty of hate crime over Sweden Koran burnings (Incident occurred 2023. Co-defendant shot to death 29 January.)

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USCP Threat Assessment Cases for 2024 (The number of US Capitol Police (USCP) threat assessment cases has climbed for the second year in a row.)
New Orleans Heightens Security for Super Bowl After New Year’s Day Attack, A month after terror attack, officials say Super Bowl has ‘no credible threats’, and DHS Agencies Support Super Bowl LIX Security
50501 Protests Update as anti-Trump March in 50 States Expands
New Orleans Sued Over Bourbon Street Terror Attack
Neo-Nazi group leader convicted of plotting Maryland power grid attack (Arrested Feb, 2023.)
Chicago music venue security guard caught shoving guest fired
Russian and Uzbek Nationals Charged with Conspiracy to File False Voter Registration Applications
Heavy Rain and Snow from Central California to the Northern Rockies through Midweek; Ice and Snow Returns Later This Week to the Mid-Atlantic and New England National Weather Service (The 3 February 2025 Daily Awareness Post provided resilience guidance in regards to ice storms and power outages.)
Blended Threat: Unpacking the vicious cycle of climate change and digital security
Thousands evacuate Santorini amid earthquake fears
Bird flu pandemic potential in US worries scientists, farmers
Woman nabbed by Thai police on alleged link to $182 million romance scam
Canadian Man Charged in $65M Cryptocurrency Hacking Schemes
DHS Has Taken Steps to Develop and Govern Artificial Intelligence, But More Action is Needed to Ensure Appropriate Use
DOD-wide social media pause rescinded
Scammers impersonate FTC officials, including Chairman Andrew Ferguson

More Security-focused Content

Attacks on Houses of Worship in 2023

Read the March 2024 Threat Level Statement Update

Access all-hazards resources from public and private sector partners, curated by the FB-ISAO team.

The FB-ISAO’s sponsor Gate 15 publishes a free daily newsletter called the SUN. Curated from their open source intelligence collection process, the SUN informs leaders and analysts with the critical news of the day and provides a holistic look at the current global, all-hazards threat environment. Ahead of the daily news cycle, the SUN allows current situational awareness into the topics that will impact your organization. To sign-up for the SUN, send an email to [email protected].
Learn More About Gate 15’s Enhanced Intel Solutions
February 4, 2025
Faith-Based Daily Awareness Post 3 February 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.
FB-ISAO’s Monthly Education Series: Standing Up Security Teams
February 5 Session: Selecting and Recruiting Your Operations Team
Security Teams are an essential component of any security program. Building a security team to safeguard people is crucial for any house of worship. The Faith-Based Information Sharing and Analysis Organization is hosting a series ofdiscussions on how to effectively create, develop, and manage a security team.
Selecting and Recruiting Your Operations Team
Not everyone is cut out to serve on a safety and security team. Good practices for vetting the team include designing and using an application, interviewing, and performing a background check to arrive at a good cadre of candidates. While there are no “ideal” candidates, each of us are human and are subject to associated frailties. During this session we will discuss screening potential team members for alignment with the organization’s mission and culture. Those traits can include the team members’ proper mindset, aptitude, character and disposition.
Date: 05 February 2025
Time: 12pm ET
To register: please visit our events page.
For more information about the program, access – Standing Up Teams – Programs Page.
CISA employees told they are exempt from federal worker resignation program
Recorded Future News reports:
Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) employees were told Thursday that they are not eligible for the federal government-wide deferred resignation program, according to an email seen by Recorded Future News.
On Tuesday evening, the Office of Personnel Management sent two million government workers an email offering anyone who resigns by February 6 to retain their pay and benefits until the end of September.
…
A source familiar with the matter said CISA employees are exempt from the offer because they are considered national security staff.
The prohibition on CISA workers accepting the deferred resignation offer follows “guidance from DHS [Department of Homeland Security] management,” according to the email from CISA Executive Director Bridget Bean.
Spokespersons for DHS and CISA did not immediately respond to a request for comment. CISA is housed inside DHS.
Related Article:
Alarmed by Chinese hacks, Republicans mute attacks on cybersecurity agency
Analyst Comments:
The FB-ISAO’s Daily Awareness Post (DAP) regularly post products and guidance developed and published by DHS’ Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA). CISA provides cyber and physical security resources, many that are specifically for Houses of Worship. The above action should enable CISA to continue providing resources to Faith-Based Organizations.
Dangerous ice threat looms for Northeast, Midwest as midweek winter storm brews over US
A winter storm is expected to bring sleet and freezing rain to portions of the Midwest and Northeast on Wednesday and Thursday.
Related Item:
NWS: WPC Winter Weather Forecasts (Includes freezing rain forecast map.)
Analyst Comments:
Ice storms are a serious threat. The National Weather Service provides recommendations on its Ice Storms website.
Ice storms often produce long-term power outages. The American Red Cross’s Power Outage Safety website provides recommendations for before, during, and after a power outage.
The American Red Cross also provides a two-page Power Outage Preparedness Checklist.
The CDC’s What to Do to Protect Yourself During a Power Outage provides recommendations on the following:
Carbon monoxide poisoning
Food, water, and medication safety
Extreme heat and cold
Protect yourself from other hazards
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More Faith-Based Stories
MO: Fire at vacant church leaves one dead in Kansas City
Pastor, 3 kids escape Denver church after warming fire spread to building (“incendiary – transient warming/heating fire.”)
KY: Abandoned 125-year-old church on the North Side catches fire and No one injured in church fire on West Broadway, Louisville Fire says
Texas Man Admits to Making Violent Threats Against Sikh Nonprofit Organization and Texas man admits to hate crime, threatening Sikh nonprofit (Occurred Sept 2022)
TN: Authorities seeking suspect after vandalism incidents at Montgomery County churches
CT: Suspects Charged In Connection To Alexander County Church Break-in
MI: Police investigate after antisemitic flyers distributed in Genesee County city
‘Crisis communications’: emails show how NFL’s Saints and NBA’s Pelicans helped New Orleans church spin abuse scandal and The Saints clergy-abuse emails: five takeaways from our investigation (Occurred 2018 and 2019)
Texas megachurch pastor retires after arrest for solicitation of prostitution at massage parlor (Arrested Oct 2024)
Sydney is facing a wave of antisemitic attacks – but what is behind them?, Five women targeted in potential antisemitic attack at Bondi Beach and Sydney cars, houses sprayed with antisemitic graffiti in latest attack on Australian Jews
UK: Major fire breaks out at Salford Orthodox synagogue
USCIRF Welcomes Release of Two Religious Prisoners of Conscience Imprisoned on Blasphemy Charges in Egypt

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Trump airstrikes target ‘senior IS attack planner’ in Somalia and DOD: Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth Statement on U.S. Africa Command Strikes in Somalia
Secretary Rubio’s Meeting with Panamanian President Mulino and Trump reiterates threat to retake Panama Canal ‘or something very powerful’ will happen
UT: Extremist group marches near Herriman City Hall to protest ‘invaders.’
Videos Show Massive Anti-ICE Protest Erupt As Demonstrators Take Over LA Highway
‘Driven to self-loathing’: Inside the extremist website believed to ‘groom’ teen attackers
New Orleans Super Bowl gets beefed up security measures
Why do arsonists set fires? The reasons are sometimes dark and surprising
Australia: White supremacist network hit with sanctions in antisemitism crackdown — as it happened
Prolonged Heavy Rain and Heavy Snow Event Continues for Northern California and into the Northern Rockies National Weather Service
Bird flu crisis enters new phase
Hoaxsters Take Advantage of D.C. Plane Crash
OUCH! Newsletter. Sweet Talk and Empty Wallet: Romance Fueled Investment Scams
Too Good to Be True: How a Crypto Investment Scam Works
Crypto Wallet Scam
How scammers are exploiting DeepSeek’s rise
Chinese Chatbot Phenom is a Disinformation Machine and DeepSeek’s Safety Guardrails Failed Every Test Researchers Threw at Its AI Chatbot
Six Takeaways From a Monumental Week for AI

More Security-focused Content

Attacks on Houses of Worship in 2023

Read the March 2024 Threat Level Statement Update

Access all-hazards resources from public and private sector partners, curated by the FB-ISAO team.

The FB-ISAO’s sponsor Gate 15 publishes a free daily newsletter called the SUN. Curated from their open source intelligence collection process, the SUN informs leaders and analysts with the critical news of the day and provides a holistic look at the current global, all-hazards threat environment. Ahead of the daily news cycle, the SUN allows current situational awareness into the topics that will impact your organization. To sign-up for the SUN, send an email to [email protected].
Learn More About Gate 15’s Enhanced Intel Solutions
February 3, 2025
Faith-Based Daily Awareness Post 31 January 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.
The state of Maryland looking to double security grants to at-risk organizations of hate crimes
47abcWMDT reports:
Governor Wes Moore wants to increase the state’s budget for security grants to organizations at risk of hate crimes. The hope is for these groups to enhance their safety at their facilities.
Temple Bat Yam President, Jerry Selig, is thankful for the Governor’s administration initiatives.
“Hopefully it’s something you are never going to need, but you never know, anything can happen. The fact that the governor is going to move forward with these grants is an enormous relief.”
According to the Anti-Defamation League, Maryland has experienced a 211% increase yearly in reported anti-Semitic incidents.
Analyst Comments:
The Protecting Against Hate Crimes (PAHC) – Governor’s Office of Crime Prevention and Policy website provides a description of and requirements for the above grant.
March 2025 is the projected date for release of the Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA) for Maryland’s Protecting Against Hate Crimes (PAHC) grant. While some requirements might change, the PDF of last year’s NOFA may be useful for preparing a grant request for 2026.
Maryland is not unique in offering security grants to Houses of Worship. While there is a pause in federal grants, Faith-Based Organizations (FBO) should consider researching what grants are available from states and local governments, and private organizations. Many state government websites provide information for grants available to houses of worship. Many are for Houses of Worship or the more general “nonprofit” category. Applying for a grant can seem overwhelming, but once the first grant is applied for, a template with all the information a grant may require will facilitate future grant applications.
Suggestions for a Successful Grant Application
FBOs should take advantage of all the grantor’s explanatory opportunities, such as webinars. The grant application process can be very complex, with very precise requirements. A better understanding of the process will improve an FBO’s chances of being awarded funds.
Begin work on the grant application as soon as possible, to ensure meeting all deadlines. Most grant processes provide an opportunity to ask questions about the process. Starting the application as soon as possible will allow applicants to ask questions and fine tune their application. Also, most grantors discard late applications, so prompt submission is a must. Though there are changes in requirements from year to year, a good baseline application can be tweaked to meet newer requirements once those are announced.
FBOs should ensure that their proposed use of the grant money is within the grant’s requirements, even if the applicant has a greater need in an area unrelated to the grant. No matter how worthy an organization’s need is, it will not be funded if it is outside the scope of the grant.
For federal grants, obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) and register in the System for Award Management at sam.gov; your organization will be assigned a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) once registered. Learn how to get a Unique Entity ID without needing to complete an entity registration on SAM.gov.
In addition to federal grants, be alert for grant opportunities from private organizations and local and state governments. Each of these entities usually have a grants office which FBOs can regularly monitor. There may also be an opportunity to be emailed alerts on future grants.
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More Faith-Based Stories
Immigration Enforcement:
Church Reaffirms Immigration Principles: Love, Law and Family Unity and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints reiterates immigration policy centered on law, love
Religious Action Center Of Reform Judaism: Supporting Immigrants and Refugees in This Challenging Moment
Evangelical group told to halt federally funded activities after Trump suspends refugee program
Despite Vance attack, Catholic bishops press ahead on defending migrants
PA: With federal funds stopped, local faith groups plan to redouble private efforts to settle refugees
NY: Violent Illegal Alien Arrested After Release from Local Jail Despite Federal Arrest Warrant
CA: Vandals strike places of worship in Bankers Hill, testing community’s faith
NJ: Hate is spewed in South Orange; Protesters shout outside shul; local leaders rally to Oheb Shalom
MI: CAIR-MI Condemns Distribution of Antisemitic Flyers in Flushing
Missouri church damaged when hit by vehicle (Accidental)
Trump’s order on antisemitism and ‘Hamas sympathizers’ has California universities on alert
Church defrocks priest for mimicking Elon Musk’s Nazi-like salute
Justice Department Resolves Lawsuit Against Pennsylvania Township and Sewage Authority Over Allegations They Substantially Burdened Amish Residents’ Religious Exercise
Tracker: Over 400 Attacks on U.S. Catholic Churches Since May 2020; Last Updated January 31, 2025
UK: Birmingham man guilty of planning a terrorism attack (Arrested March 2024. Planned attack against a mosque and a bookshop,)
Swedish PM says shooting of anti-Islam campaigner may be linked to foreign power
ASIO won’t lift terror threat above ‘probable’ after alleged antisemitic terror plot — as it happened (Australian Security Intelligence Organisation)
Australia – AUDIO: Jewish community ramps up security

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FAA Statements on Midair Collision at Reagan Washington National Airport and D.C. plane crash: What we know about the collision and recovery efforts
Four Members of Online Neo-Nazi Group that Exploited Minors Charged with Producing Child Sexual Abuse Material
U.S. Attorney, U.S. Secret Service and FBI Announce Federal Charges Against Albuquerque Man for Making Threats Against President Trump (Occurred between January 2 and 4, 2025.)
NCITE Insights No. 21 — Family and Suspicious Activity Reporting
ICCT: 2025 New Orleans Truck Attack: The Role of Electric Vehicles and Peer-to-Peer Platforms
Bourbon Street area designated as ‘enhanced security zone’ for Super Bowl
The New Orleans Attack: The Technology Behind IS-Inspired Plots
Combating Terrorism Center at West Point: CTC Sentinel: January 2025 Issue, January 2025 Issue. PDF
Top F.B.I. Officials Are Told to Resign or Be Fired
Areas of Heavy Rain in the East; Prolonged Heavy Rain and Snowfall Event for the Northwest U.S. National Weather Service
Hospital nurse dies in Uganda in first Ebola virus outbreak since 2022, health ministry says and Uganda confirms deadly outbreak of Sudan Ebola virus
Pentagon scrambles to block DeepSeek after employees connect to Chinese servers
Chinese Chatbot Phenom is a Disinformation Machine
State and local governments should prepare for changes to CISA, cyber experts say
Trump Administration Faces Security Balancing Act in Borderless Cyber Landscape
When ransomware kills: Attacks on healthcare facilities
NCC Group releases Annual Cyber Threat Monitor Report 2024
More Security-focused Content

Attacks on Houses of Worship in 2023

Read the March 2024 Threat Level Statement Update

Access all-hazards resources from public and private sector partners, curated by the FB-ISAO team.

The FB-ISAO’s sponsor Gate 15 publishes a free daily newsletter called the SUN. Curated from their open source intelligence collection process, the SUN informs leaders and analysts with the critical news of the day and provides a holistic look at the current global, all-hazards threat environment. Ahead of the daily news cycle, the SUN allows current situational awareness into the topics that will impact your organization. To sign-up for the SUN, send an email to [email protected].
Learn More About Gate 15’s Enhanced Intel Solutions
January 31, 2025
Faith-Based Daily Awareness Post 30 January 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.
D.C. plane crash: What we know about the collision as authorities say no survivors found
Axios reports:
An American Airlines passenger jet with 64 people on board collided with a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter carrying three soldiers near Reagan National Airport outside D.C., sending both aircraft plunging into the Potomac River.
The latest: John Donnelly, chief of D.C. Fire and EMS, told reporters: “We are now at a point where we are switching from a rescue operation to a recovery operation. At this point, we don’t believe there are any survivors from this accident, and we have recovered 27 people from the plane and one from the helicopter.”
The helicopter was told to maintain visual separation with the plane — essentially, “see and avoid,” Axios aviation expert Alex Fitzpatrick notes. That’s not an unusual procedure, despite a Truth Social postfrom President Trump questioning why the control tower hadn’t given more direct instructions.
It’s also not unusual to see Black Hawks flying low along the Potomac. This is some of America’s busiest airspace due to the presence of both military and commercial aircraft.
“This was not unusual with a military aircraft flying the river and an aircraft landing at DCA,” (Secretary of Transportation Sean) Duffy said.
What remains unclear is why the military aircraft did not divert from its path and collided with the jet as it made its final descent.
Additional Articles:
DCA: Aircraft Incident At DCA
American Airlines: Information regarding American Eagle Flight 5342
Chilling Audio Captures Moment Helicopter Strikes D.C. Passenger Plane
No indications of criminality or terrorism, FBI says
FBI Washington Field Office Statement on Aviation Incident at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport
The Nashville Attack Displayed Several Hallmarks of Modern Terrorism
The Soufan Center’s (TSC) brief details the following:
Last week’s deadly shooting in Nashville, Tennessee, fits a trend in extremism variously described as ideological convergence or salad bar ideology, with other elements at play, including anti-Semitism, references to the “Great Replacement” theory, and self-identification as an “incel,” or involuntary celibate.
The attacker’s manifesto spoke of his isolation and loneliness, lending credence to a view among some in counterterrorism that ideology is sometimes just a veneer atop a killer’s pre-existing propensity for violence.
The Nashville terrorist followed the model of other incels like Elliot Rodger, who often politicize their isolation and loneliness into a specific grievance against women and proceed to attack a school or university.
The attacker’s manifesto reveals the breadcrumbs that point to a trajectory of online radicalization, and within this network, he engaged with strategic and organizational centers of gravity in the violent far right, including the recently designated Terrorgram Collective.
The briefing concludes with “Nobody knows where the next attack will occur, the only certainty is that there will be a next time.”
Analyst Comments:
As was stated in yesterday’s Daily Awareness Post (DAP), reviewing threat studies can assist Faith-Based Organizations (FBO) with knowing possible threats to their organization, assessing their organization’s risk, and developing cost and time-efficient security plans and procedures.
The above brief and Homeland Security Today’s 2025 Homeland Security Threat Forecast: Part I, Terrorism can assist in improving a FBO’s security posture.
Additionally, being aware of what threat-actor activities look like, including online postings, can possibly lead to a If You See Something, Say Something® opportunity.
Get the Daily Awareness Post Delivered to your Email!
More Faith-Based Stories
AR: Police searching for gunman who shot up church
NC: Two Men Arrested After North Carolina Pastor Robbed And Assaulted
SC: Aiken man accused of trying to rob woman in front of a church
GA: 2 charged after gunfire hits church and vehicle in Talbot County (Incident occurred 5 January.)
Nazi Symbol Discovered at Massachusetts Open Space
MA: Nazi Symbol Discovered in Massachusetts Middle School
Colorado Springs church vandalized for the fourth time in six months
RI: Steeple collapses in fire at Providence church (accidental)
Immigration Enforcement:
What does Trump’s immigration crackdown mean for churches?
Immigration arrests in churches? Some clergy say not so fast
Hispanic Clergy Say Loss Of ‘Sensitive Locations’ Rule In ICE Raids Hurts Church
Trump orders review to identify, punish and deport antisemites — including students on visas
False rumors of ICE raids spark panic in cities around U.S.
Executive Order: Expanding Migrant Operations Center at Naval Station Guantanamo Bay to Full Capacity and Trump orders opening of migrant detention center at Guantánamo Bay
ICE and CRE: Questions For Real Estate Professionals To Consider (Commercial Real Estate)
Federal Grants:
Jewish nonprofits left scrambling by federal funding freeze announcements
Trump White House rescinds memo freezing federal money after widespread confusion
White House rescinded funding memo after GOP senators ‘hit the ceiling’
CAIR Condemns White House’s Repetition of Lie About $50 Million in Aid for Gaza Condoms
Executive Order: Additional Measures to Combat Anti-Semitism, ADL Statement on the New Executive Order to Combat Antisemitism and CAIR Calls Trump’s Reported Anti-Palestinian Executive Order a ‘Dishonest, Overbroad and Unenforceable’ Attack on Free Speech, College Activism
From Tehran to Columbia: Inside America’s Student Intifada
83% of Jewish College Students Have Experienced or Witnessed Antisemitism Firsthand Since Oct. 7 Attack, Survey Find
Settlement in Heartbeat of Miami v. Jane’s Revenge Pro-Life Pregnancy Center Vandalism Lawsuit
Man who burned Quran ‘shot dead in Sweden.’
Australia: NSW police say caravan investigation ‘compromised’ by media leak as Daily Telegraph calls criticism ‘unfair’ (Incident occurred 19 January.)
Antisemitic attacks escalate in Australia
National Day of Remembrance of the Québec City Mosque Attack and Action against Islamophobia
Australia: Parents and 12 members of church guilty of manslaughter of Elizabeth Struhs (Incident occurred 2022.)

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Hamas frees 8 more hostages but Israel puts prisoner release on hold after a chaotic handover
IA: Dubuque man facing Terrorism charges after threat made against Finley Hospital
President Trump Signs the Laken Riley Act into Law
U.S. Embassy & Consulates In Mexico: Security Alert: Level 4 – Do Not Travel Due To Crime And Kidnapping (Reynosa and Tamaulipas)
Democratic Republic of the Congo Travel Advisory-Level 4: Do Not Travel-January 29, 2025
Severe Thunderstorms and Excessive Rainfall over the Southern U.S.; Pacific Storm to Impact Hawaii National Weather Service
What Is Tuberculosis And How Does It Spread?
Avian flu strikes second biggest US egg producer
LA Fires: Evacuation orders will end in McDowell County while progress is made on wildfires and Inside the intense search for what — or who — started the Palisades fire
The ‘murder gang’ of computer whizzkids linked to the killings of a Border Patrol agent and a landlord 3,000 miles apart
Trump’s ‘make peace or die’ message to Putin is deepfake. Yet it fooled Russians
OpenAI says DeepSeek stole its AI data, but how common is ‘distillation’?
Garmin outage FIXED: What to do if your device still isn’t working
Hackers are hijacking WordPress sites to push Windows and Mac malware
More Security-focused Content

Attacks on Houses of Worship in 2023

Read the March 2024 Threat Level Statement Update

Access all-hazards resources from public and private sector partners, curated by the FB-ISAO team.

The FB-ISAO’s sponsor Gate 15 publishes a free daily newsletter called the SUN. Curated from their open source intelligence collection process, the SUN informs leaders and analysts with the critical news of the day and provides a holistic look at the current global, all-hazards threat environment. Ahead of the daily news cycle, the SUN allows current situational awareness into the topics that will impact your organization. To sign-up for the SUN, send an email to [email protected].
Learn More About Gate 15’s Enhanced Intel Solutions
January 30, 2025