Let it be known that no threats have been levied against possible targets in South Dakota. Put these in the mental file just in case they are needed.

South Dakota’s Homeland Security Director Steve Pluta has a list of eight signs that could indicate possible terrorist activity. For those who are keenly aware, seeing one or a combination of things should raise awareness to a possible attack.

In a press release Pluta says, “The recent terrorist events throughout the world have shown that such activity can take place anywhere. By knowing these signs, citizens can identify behaviors possibly associated with terrorist activity and notify law enforcement if they see anything suspicious.”

Pluta says the eight signs and related examples are:

  • 1

    Surveillance

    If people are conducting a survey of the target to determine security strengths and weaknesses. This may include taking pictures of access points, security personnel, and security cameras.

  • 2

    Information Gathering

    If an individual is asking probing questions about security or operations related to an intended target.

  • 3

    Testing Security

    Are they trying to find out how long and from where law enforcement or security will respond to an incident? This may include leaving behind an unattended package or trespassing.

  • 4

    Funding

    Collecting money needed for weapons and supplies. Ways to raise funds include drug trafficking or soliciting fake charitable contributions.

  • 5

    Acquiring Supplies

    This may include weapons, transportation and communications equipment. Those involved may stockpile items, make strange purchases or bulk purchases of chemicals such as household cleaners, fertilizer or beauty supplies. They may pay for large transactions with cash or pre-paid credit cards.

  • 6

    Impersonation

    This includes the use of aliases or impersonation of first responders, maintenance workers or employees. They may present false documents or identification and wear incomplete uniforms.

  • 7

    Rehearsal

    They may rehearse the incident several times to include testing weapons, putting their people into place and testing emergency response times.

  • 8

    Deployment

    Getting into position and ready to execute the operation.

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