Terrorism - if you suspect it, report it

The current threat level to UK security is 'substantial.' This means a terrorist attack is a strong possibility.

The government continues to be ready to act in response to the threat from international terrorism.

It is government policy to issue warnings or advice if it ever becomes necessary to protect public safety in the event of a specific and credible terrorist threat.

Source of the threats

The threat of international terrorism comes from a diverse range of sources, including Al Qaida and associated networks, and those who share Al Qaida's ideology but do not have direct contact with them.

A threat could also come from an individual or group, rather than a larger network.

National counter terrorism

The government has a long-term strategy for countering international terrorism, known as CONTEST. 

Its aim is to reduce the risk of terrorism, so that we can all go about our daily lives freely and with confidence.

The strategy is divided into four strands

• PURSUE - to stop terrorist attacks
• PREPARE - where an attack cannot be stopped, to try to lessen its impact
• PROTECT - to strengthen the country's overall protection against terrorist attacks 
• PREVENT - to stop people becoming terrorists or supporting violent extremists. You can read more about the PREVENT strand using the links on the right.

Businesses - play your part

• Read our advice on how to play your part in protecting your business from terrorist activity.
• Read information and advice from the National Counter Terrorism Security Office

Online terrorism

The internet is used by some people to promote terrorism and violent extremism and corrupt individuals who are vulnerable to radicalisation. You can report online terrorism at www.direct.gov.uk/reportingonlineterrorism.

• Read more about online terrorism
   

Report it

The terrorist threat remains real and there is no room for complacency. You should remain alert and aware of your surroundings at all time.

• Call us 

If you think you have seen a person acting suspiciously, or if you see a vehicle, unattended package or bag which might be a threat, immediately move away and call 999.

If something strikes you as suspicious and out of place then trust your instincts and call the police on 999 or the anti-terrorist hotline on 0800 789321.

• Report it online

www.direct.gov.uk/reportingonlineterrorism is a dedicated webpage where you can report online terrorist content you think might be illegal, or which you find offensive, to a specialist police department.

• Text us

If you are deaf or having hearing difficulties, you can use a textphone to call the hotline on 0800 032 4539 (text messages are not accepted.)

Call the anti-terrorist hotline in confidence on 0800 789321