Situational Awareness

Situational awareness is being aware of what is happening around you and recognising whether there could be a threat to your safety or security.  Well-honed situational awareness skills help you to recognise the early signs of a threat and enable you to react and respond quickly to potential danger.

At times, when we have lots of things going on around us, we may fail to notice signs that a situation is changing and becoming more volatile. Sometimes these signs may be very hard to pick up on and, even if we don’t spot something, it doesn’t mean it’s not happening.  When we are in noisy and busy environments, such as reception areas or public transport, we can become absorbed in our own thoughts and fail to see and hear signs of a threat.

Personal situational awareness is different to organisational situational awareness, which aims to help staff to identify suspicious activity at a site. Personal situational awareness is especially important for individuals who have heightened risk to their personal safety and security, arising from national security threats, such as those from state-backed actors and terrorists.

High-risk individuals may be targeted online and in-person. In both virtual and physical environments, incidents can escalate from mildly concerning to very serious.

Unless action is taken, these incidents can have far-reaching consequences, causing harm, damage, or even loss of life. It is important to recognise the potential for escalation and take practical steps to deal with incidents.

The following sections outline the actions you can take if you are subjected to:

Online incidents including, abuse, harassment, intimidation, threatening or malicious communications and unlawful access of your information.  

In person incidents including, stalking and surveillance, threats, abuse, intimidation, damage to property and assault.

Why you might be subject of online abuse

High-risk individuals may be subject to online abuse including harassment and intimidation for reasons including:

• To provoke a reaction or cause distress.
• Disagreement with your views or actions,prompting a backlash or criticism.
• Attempts to silence or intimidate you by threats of violence, cyberbullying or online stalking.
• Your success or prominence evoking jealousy or resentment leading to derogatory remarks or attempts to damage your character or reputation.
• Becoming a target of online abuse based on misinformation, stereotypes, or prejudices.
• You are subjected to online abuse as a form of retaliation or revenge, especially if involved in controversial or contentious issues.
• Online threats or intimidation are conducted or sponsored by state-backed actors.

Online anonymity can embolden individuals to engage in abusive behaviour that they may not exhibit in face-to-face interactions. The distance and perceived anonymity of the internet can lead to increased levels of aggression or hostility. Abuse can have serious consequences, including psychological harm, reputational damage, and threats to personal safety.

What you should do if you are subject of online abuse

If online abuse is happening to you:

• Do not reply, to any abusive messages.
• Document abuse and keep offensive emails, messages and posts as evidence.
• Block the abuser's social media, email and instant messaging accounts, as appropriate.
• Report the abuser to your internet service provider (ISP), mobile phone provider and/or the social media site as applicable.
• Report serious abuse such as threats of physical harm or persistent harassment, to the police.
• If you receive threats or intimidation from individuals or groups associated with extremist ideologies or terrorist organisations, it is important to report this information to the Anti-Terrorist Hotline immediately on 0800 789 321.
• Revisit the security of your devices (see Plan Ahead and Protect Information About You).

Further information about online abuse can be obtained from websites including Get Safe Online, Suzy Lamplugh Trust and practical advice for handling online abuse from the Local Government Association.

When to call the police

Call the police via 999, if any of the following factors are present:

• There is the threat of imminent violence.
• If someone seems set on a certain course of action or is making a very specific type of threat or reference to a plan.
• If you become aware that the individual has access to weapons or has weapons skills.
• If the person releases personal information about you not already in the public domain.

https://www.npsa.gov.uk/are-you-being-abused-harassed-or-intimidated

How could you be targeted online

As a high-risk individuals you may be targeted online for the purposes of espionage, coercion or personal attacks. It may also be to gain access to your movements or travel information. The means may vary depending on the motivations of the hostile actor and your vulnerabilities. Methods that could be used include:

• Getting you to disclose sensitive information or perform compromising actions. This could involve the hostile actor impersonating friends, family members or authority figures to gain your trust and extract information.
• You may be targeted with phishing emails, messages, or fake websites designed to trick you into providing login credentials, financial information, explicit images or other sensitive data.
• Hostile actors may attempt to infect your devices with malware or remote access tools, allowing them to monitor your activities, steal information, or gain unauthorised access to your accounts or systems.
• You may be targeted for financial exploitation through online scams, investment fraud or identity theft schemes. Perpetrators may try to gain your trust before persuading you to transfer money or disclose financial information.
• Hostile actors may want to gain control of your online information and material to tarnish your reputation by leaking it or using it against you or to their advantage.

It may not always be obvious that you've been targeted online, especially if the tactics used by the hostile actor are subtle or disguised. You should be vigilant online and protect  information about you to reduce the risk of any unsolicited incidents.

What to do if you think you have been targeted online

• If you receive a suspicious email or spot other suspicious activity on any of your devices:
• Do not click on any links or reply if there is any doubt about its authenticity.
• Collate any relevant information as evidence (e.g. take screenshots).
• If you have clicked on a link, or think you’ve been hacked on a device or account that your organisation has provided, report it to IT support.
• If it is your own device, follow the advice on the NCSC website. This includes:
• how to recover a hacked account
• running a scan on your antivirus software changing passwords
•  contacting your bank or Action Fraud if appropriate.
• It's important for high-risk individuals to seek support from, and inform, their organisations, the police or other trusted sources such as reputable cybersecurity experts if they experience online targeting.

When to call the police

If the threats or nature of the targeting makes you believe you may be in imminent danger you should call the Police using 999.

If you believe that you have been a victim of crime you should report this by calling 101.

https://www.npsa.gov.uk/are-you-being-targeted-or-someone-trying-access-your-information

As a high-risk individual, you may find yourself in a situation where you think you are being watched or followed.

Stalking

Stalking is the term given to repeated and unwanted intrusive behaviour towards another person, creating distress. It includes correspondence in all its forms, but also refers to in-person watching or even approaches.

High-risk individuals with significant public profiles, who have roles that require them to be in the public eye, are at particular risk of stalking. Stalkers can present a risk of physical harm.

On the rare occasions when a high-risk individual has been attacked, stalking behaviour has often been a prelude. Past cases indicate that the stalkers are likely to have a history of mental illness and to have exhibited some warning behaviour.

If you are experiencing worrying behaviour such as unwanted, fixated, obsessive, repeated online messaging and/or conduct such that it is having a negative impact on you and you are having to change your behaviour or daily activities, you should take immediate action (see below). This is particularly the case if the behaviour has intensified to the point where you believe you are being physically watched or followed.

For further guidance about stalking online and in-person see:

What is stalking and harassment? https://www.met.police.uk/advice/advice-and-information/sh/stalking-harassment/what-is-stalking-harassment/

National Stalking Helpline https://www.suzylamplugh.org/pages/category/national-stalking-helpline

Hostile Surveillance

Hostile surveillance is the monitoring of people or locations by individuals or organisations with malicious intent. It is normally covert and may be used to gather information about the subject to inform the planning of a future action. The surveillance may be conducted both on-line and in-person. The key differences between stalking and surveillance involve behaviour and intent.

Hostile surveillance is typically conducted by state-backed organisations, terrorist groups, criminal organisations or other individuals or bodies seeking to gather information or intimidate you for unlawful purposes.

Characteristics of hostile surveillance may include:

• Covert monitoring: Surveillance is conducted discreetly, with the subjects often being unaware that they are being observed.
• Hostile reconnaissance or intelligence gathering: The purpose of surveillance is to gather intelligence on the target's activities, routines or vulnerabilities, or to gain other information that could be exploited for malicious purposes.
• Sophisticated tactics: Surveillance may involve sophisticated surveillance and tracking equipment.

What should I do if I think I'm being stalked or subject to hostile surveillance?

Stalking and hostile surveillance can pose significant risks to your safety and security. The following advice is particularly designed for those high-risk individuals exposed to national security threats. If that is the case, you should consider the following action.

• Assess the situation: Pay close attention to your surroundings and any suspicious behaviour you observe. Look for signs of stalking/surveillance, such as individuals loitering nearby, unusual vehicles parked outside your home or workplace, or repeated encounters with the same people.
• Do not approach: If you suspect you are the subject of stalking/surveillance do not approach or confront anyone you suspect to be carrying it out. However, if safe to do so, capture as much information as possible. If you can, pass through areas where there is CCTV, so further information can be captured.  Head to a place where there are lots of people (if you are travelling) or an area where police are likely to be present.
• Change plans if appropriate:  If you have been advised by the police there is a threat to you and you think you are being watched or followed, consider if it is wise to continue your planned activity (e.g. going home/work) as this may provide those conducting potential surveillance the information they are looking for. If this is the case, call the police via 999 and explain the situation; tell them you are a high-risk individual and why.
• Document evidence: If safe to do so, keep detailed records of any suspicious incidents or behaviours you observe, including: dates, times, locations, descriptions of individuals or vehicles involved, and any other relevant information. This documentation will be useful to the police.
• Report to the authorities: As a high-risk individual, if you suspect hostile surveillance is being conducted, call the Anti-Terrorist Hotline immediately on 0800 789 321. You must explain your situation, why you are high risk, and detail exactly what has happened. However, if you are in immediate danger always dial 999.
• Stay vigilant: Remain alert and continue to monitor your surroundings for any signs of ongoing stalking/surveillance. Trust your instincts and take proactive steps to protect yourself and your family.
• Review your security measures: Assess your current security measures and consider whether any additional precautions are necessary to protect yourself and your belongings. This may include upgrading locks, installing security cameras, varying your daily routines, or seeking advice from security professionals (see Plan Ahead  www.npsa.gov.uk/plan-ahead ).

Dealing with hostile stalking/surveillance is potentially dangerous. Prioritise your safety and well-being throughout and if you feel threatened or unsafe seek assistance from the police immediately.

Call the police

If you believe you are in immediate danger or being actively targeted by stalking or hostile surveillance, contact the police immediately by calling 999. State you are a high-risk individual and why. Provide them with all the information you have gathered and follow their instructions.

https://www.npsa.gov.uk/are-you-being-watched-or-followed

If you are being confronted, threatened or abused but it has not yet reached the point where you are in immediate danger, consider taking the following actions. However, you will be the best judge of what to do given your wider risk and the specific local circumstances.

• Assess the situation: Quickly assess the situation and determine the level of threat. If you feel that you are in immediate danger or at risk of harm, prioritise your safety above all else.
• Think ahead: it is important to think through what you would do if things escalate, and you are put in immediate danger.
• Stay calm: Try to remain as calm as possible and focus on staying composed. Avoid escalating the situation further with aggressive or confrontational behaviour.
• Remove yourself from the situation: If possible, remove yourself from the immediate vicinity of the confrontation or abusive behaviour. Seek a safer area where you can distance yourself from the individual or individuals involved.
• Seek help: If you feel threatened or unsafe, don't hesitate to seek help from others nearby. This could include asking bystanders for assistance, seeking refuge in a public place, or contacting security personnel or the police .
• Use de-escalation techniques: If the situation is deteriorating, and you feel comfortable and safe doing so, try to de-escalate things by using calm and assertive communication techniques. Maintain a neutral tone of voice, avoid making provocative statements and focus on defusing tension (click here for the ‘de-escalation techniques’ guidance).
• Document evidence: If the confrontation or abuse is ongoing or if you anticipate that it may escalate, where possible document evidence of the incident. This could include recording audio or video footage on your phone (although in some circumstances this can cause increased aggression), taking photos of any damage or injuries, or making detailed written notes about what has occurred (see after an incident).
• Report the incident: Report the incident to the police, especially if you believe a crime has been committed or if you feel that your safety is at risk. Provide as much detail as possible about the incident, including descriptions of the individuals involved and any relevant evidence you have collected. State you are a high-risk individual and why.
• Seek support: Reach out to friends, family members, or trusted individuals for support and guidance. Talking to someone you trust can help you process the experience, and access additional resources or assistance if needed.
• Consider legal options: Depending on the severity of the situation and your specific circumstances, you may want to explore legal options for seeking protection or pursuing justice. This could involve obtaining a restraining order, filing a police report, or seeking advice from a legal professional.
• Take care of yourself: After experiencing a confrontation or an abusive incident, take care of your emotional well-being. Seek support from mental health professionals or support groups wherever necessary.

When to call the police

Your safety and well-being are paramount. Do not hesitate to take decisive action to protect yourself if you feel threatened or at risk of harm. Call the police via 999 as soon as your safety is threatened. Always state you are a high-risk individual and why.

https://www.npsa.gov.uk/are-you-being-confronted-threatened-or-abused

Dealing with conflict

High-risk individuals may be approached by people experiencing distress, frustration, anger or exhibiting threatening behaviour. These encounters an take place face-to-face, online or over the phone.

When confronted with an in-person threat, there are steps you can take that may help reduce the chance of a situation deteriorating to the point where violence is used. It is unusual for aggressive or violent behaviour to be spontaneous, and it is helpful to recognise the signals that suggest the mood of an individual has changed. These may include:

• Sudden variation in tone and pitch of voice coupled with altered body language
• An increase in movement, including pace. fidgeting and excessive gesturing
• Deliberately disruptive behaviours, including shouting and interrupting
• Physical change in posture and facial expression.

If the above signs are present or you sense that a situation is escalating with the potential to become violent, the following guidance applies:

• De-escalation involves employing both verbal and non-verbal strategies to reduce tension in these situations. Remaining calm may go against your natural flight-or-fight reflexes, but it is a very effective de-escalation strategy.  Use deliberate actions, verbal communication and positive body language to calm potentially dangerous situations.
• Your safety and the safety of others is the highest priority. Maintain a safe distance and avoid being alone with an individual who is combative or potentially violent. In some circumstances, de-escalation techniques are not effective.  If there is a risk of imminent violence, remove yourself from the situation and seek safety.
• Know your limits. Keep in mind that some people are more comfortable using these de-escalation techniques. Giving the appearance of being calm and in control under intense pressure is not something everyone can achieve, although this can be improved through preparation and practice. Know your own limitations and recognise that sometimes the best intervention is knowing when to seek help.
• Obtain help. If you feel the individual or situation is escalating and you feel unsafe, call 999 immediately and move yourself to a safe location. Avoid being isolated or trapped in a location and try to identify safe routes and exits as part of your routine movements

What to do if you are in immediate danger

If you are a high-risk individual and you find yourself in immediate danger, it is vital to take swift action to ensure your safety.

As soon as it is safe to do so you should call the police via 999, to get emergency assistance on the way to you.

Depending on the situation:

• Get to a safe location: As a priority, and if possible, remove yourself from danger and seek refuge in a safe location. This could be indoors, in a locked room, or in a public place where you feel secure.
• Stay calm: Try to remain as calm as possible, despite the urgency of the situation. Taking slow, deep breaths in through the nose and out through the mouth can help you stay focused and composed.
• Assess the threat: Quickly assess the nature and severity of the danger you are facing. Determine if the threat is imminent and if there are immediate actions you can take to mitigate the risk.
• Alert others: Depending on the circumstances, and if appropriate, alert others to the danger and encourage them to seek safety as well. This could include co-workers, family members, or bystanders.
• Stay vigilant: Remain watchful and aware of your surroundings, even after you have reached a safe location. Take precautions to ensure your ongoing safety and be prepared to respond to any further threats or developments.

Calling For Help

In an emergency always call 999

An emergency is described as when:

• A crime is in progress
• Someone who is suspected of a crime is nearby
• There is danger to life
• Violence is being used, is imminent, or an attack has taken place.

In these cases, it is essential that:

1.  Police are alerted immediately
2. You follow their advice/instruction
3. Maintain the integrity of the scene (do not touch or clean up anything)

In other incidents, where a non-emergency response is required - call 101.

When calling 999

1. Contact the emergency services as soon as possible. Do not assume a call has already been made.
2. State you are a high-risk individual and why. Give your location.  You should state in short, simple language what has happened.
3. Do not put yourself at risk. Identify a safe place to make the call away from danger or use the emergency SOS system described below if it is on the discreet setting.
4. Phones should be on silent if attackers are nearby. On a mobile, dialling 999 can be followed by 55 for a transfer to the police. Also, you can pre-programme your phone as below.
5. Police can also be messaged in an emergency using the SMS service (if the phone has been preregistered for this service).

Setting up emergency SOS on your mobile phone

You can set up your mobile telephone so that when activated it will call the emergency services, share location information and message emergency contacts. Once set up, triggering a response will normally involve something like pressing the power button five times. It can be programmed to be noisy or discreet.  It can be cancelled if activated in error.

Setting up emergency SOS features will vary depending on the type of mobile phone you have and the operating system it runs on. However, it is easy to do and information is available online to guide you through the process. See the following links:

• Android: Get help with your Android phone in an emergency https://support.google.com/android/answer/9319337?hl=en-GB
• IOS: Use Emergency SOS on your iPhone – Ahttps://support.apple.com/en-gb/104992
• For Vehicles (eCall): https://nationalhighways.co.uk/road-safety/ecall/

Correct as @ 19.04.2024