National Terrorism Advisory System

Bulletin 

www.dhs.gov/advisories

TIME 

If You See Something, Say SomethingTM. Report suspicious activity to local law enforcement or call 911.

The National Terrorism Advisory System provides information on homeland security issues and threats. It is distributed by the Department of Homeland 

Security. More information is available at: www.dhs.gov/advisories. To receive mobile updates: www.twitter.com/dhsgov 

If You See Something Say SomethingTM used with permission of the NY Metropolitan Transportation Authority.

DATE AND TIME ISSUED: 12/16/2015 11:30 A.M. ET 

Describes current developments 

or general trends regarding 

threats of terrorism. 

Warns of a credible terrorism 

threat against the United States. 

Warns of a credible, specific and 

impending terrorism threat 

against the United States.

ADDITIONAL DETAILS 

 Though we know of no intelligence that is both specific and credible at this time of a

plot by terrorist organizations to attack the homeland, the reality is terrorist-inspired

individuals have conducted, or attempted to conduct, attacks in the United States this

year.

 DHS is especially concerned that terrorist-inspired individuals and homegrown violent

extremists may be encouraged or inspired to target public events or places.

 As we saw in the recent attacks in San Bernardino and Paris, terrorists will consider a

diverse and wide selection of targets for attacks.

 In the current environment, DHS is also concerned about threats and violence directed

at particular communities and individuals across the country, based on perceived

religion, ethnicity, or nationality.

U.S. GOVERNMENT COUNTERTERRORISM EFFORTS 

 DHS and the FBI are providing additional guidance to state and local partners on

increased security measures. The public should expect an increased presence of law

enforcement across communities in the weeks ahead. More stringent security should

also be anticipated at public places and events. This may include a heavy police

presence, additional restrictions and searches on bags and the use of screening

technologies.

 The FBI is investigating potential terrorism-related activities associated with this broad threat throughout the United States.

Federal, state, and local authorities are coordinating numerous law enforcement actions and community outreach to address this

evolving threat.

BE PREPARED

 Expect increased security across most

U.S. cities and plan ahead to anticipate 

delays and restricted/prohibited items. 

 In populated places, be responsible for

your personal safety. Make a mental

note of emergency exits and locations of

the nearest security personnel. Keep cell

phones in your pockets instead of bags

or on tables so you don’t lose them

during an incident. Carry emergency

contact details and any special needs

info with you at all times. For more

visit: http://www.ready.gov



SUMMARY

We are in a new phase in the global threat environment, which has implications on the 

homeland. Particularly with the rise in use by terrorist groups of the Internet to 

inspire and recruit, we are concerned about the “self-radicalized” actor(s) who could

strike with little or no notice. Recent attacks and attempted attacks internationally and 

in the homeland warrant increased security, as well as increased public vigilance and 

awareness.

DURATION

This Bulletin will expire on

June 16, 2016

at 11:59 p.m. 

HOW YOU CAN HELP

 Community leaders, co-workers,

friends, and family can help by 

recognizing signs of potential 

radicalization to violence. For more 

information visit: 

https://nsi.ncirc.gov/

 Report threats or suspicious activity to

the FBI or your local authorities.

Contact info for FBI Field Offices can be

found here:

http://www.fbi.gov/contact-us/field

STAY INFORMED

 The U.S. Government will provide

additional information about any emerging 

threat as additional information is 

identified. The public is encouraged to 

listen to local law enforcement and public 

safety officials.

 We urge Americans to continue to travel,

attend public events, and freely associate

with others but remain vigilant and aware

of surroundings while doing so,

particularly during the holidays.

NTAS ADVISORY 2015.001-B

b