Suspicious Activity and Items
Learn how to recognize unusual behaviors and suspicious items typically associated with Improvised Explosive Device (IED) threats.
Being able to quickly identify and report suspicious activity can help mitigate potential bombing incidents. This includes vigilance in recognizing questionable and concerning purchases, what to do with unattended items, and understanding surveillance detection principles. Securing our communities requires a whole-of-nation approach and to do that, everyone should be armed with tools and resources needed to effectively respond to active and potential threats. The acronym BOMBER is a tool you can use to assess your surroundings, identify suspicious activity, and help prevent a potential bombing incident.
Request OBP Assistance
Need assistance improving your bombing prevention posture? Reach out to OBP at the email address below and we can help assess your current needs and discuss OBP resources.
Featured Videos
Report Suspicious Activity
Notice suspicious purchases or other behaviors that indicate potential bomb-making activities? Report it by calling 1-855-TELL-FBI (1-855-835-5324) or contact your local law enforcement. In the event of an emergency, call 9-1-1.
Training
Access training courses to recognize unusual behaviors and suspicious activity typically associated with a potential threat.
For more information about OBP's Training Program and the types of courses we offer, visit the OBP Training page.
Suspicious Activity Recognition for Bombing Prevention Course (AWR-943)
Introduction to the Terrorist Attack Cycle Course (AWR-334)
Bomb-Making Materials Awareness: Your Role Course (AWR-911)
Surveillance Detection for Bombing Prevention Course (PER-346)
Products
Recognize unusual behaviors typically associated with a potential threat via various resources.
Identify Suspicious Activity Card and Poster
Unattended vs. Suspicious Item Postcard and Poster
Be Vigilant Training Video Series
What to Do: Suspicious or Unattended Item Video
Tools/Services
Using specific tools and services will help spot unusual behaviors related to a potential IED threat.
Technical Resource for Incident Prevention (TRIPwire) Portal
Bomb-Making Materials Awareness Program (BMAP)
Operation Flashpoint
TRIPwire
To access more bombing prevention resources, visit the Technical Resource for Incident Prevention (TRIPwire). TRIPwire is an online, collaborative information-sharing and resource portal designed to help prevent improvised explosive device incidents.
Contact
To report suspicious activity, call 9-1-1 or contact local law enforcement.
For additional information about OBP resources, please contact your local Protective Security Advisor (PSA) or OBP directly at OBP@cisa.dhs.gov.
Informed, alert communities play a critical role in keeping our nation safe. Everyone has a responsibility to protect our nation—"If You See Something, Say Something."