Source unknown

[E229Lt]

but I will post the following. If somebody knows the source, please post it:

SPECIAL ALERT: Probing Activities in US Rise Sharply

20 May 2005: A "sudden surge" of individuals possessing and attempting to use false credentials, badges and in some cases, uniforms to probe key areas within the infrastructure and emergency services of the United States is being reported by federal law enforcement officials. A significant increase in potential terrorist probes is being reported concurrently on three levels as detailed below:

Surveillance & Active Probing of Power Plants, Water Treatment Systems, and other Areas of U.S. Infrastructure

Active Entry Attempts at Hospitals, First Responder Stations (Ambulance & Fire) to Access Information & Assess Response

Electronic Probing of Critical Computer Systems

"Sensitive" reports compiled this week by the Department of Homeland Security are showing a consistent, nationwide increase in attempts to breach security at key locations within the U.S. by individuals using subterfuge and false credentials, according to the report labeled ìrestricted dissemination.î The report cites a sharp rise in incidents of individuals
using fictitious identification who have attempted to gain entry into restricted areas of hospitals, medical facilities, fire stations, and ambulance and rescue stations. In some cases, there have been reports of thefts of various equipment, including biohazard suits and protective clothing.

Also cited in this report is a significant rise in "suspicious activity," further described as "the surveillance and photography" of key elements of our infrastructure, including nuclear and conventional power plants, water treatment plants, chemical storage facilities, gas refineries and storage facilities, bridge structures, train and subway stations, and large office
buildings. In some instances, ventilation systems appeared to be the focus of attention.

In situations involving hospitals and key medical support facilities, security has thwarted all "known fraudulent attempts " to gain access to restricted areas or information, according to the report. [Emphasis added]. A number of cases were cited where individuals using fake credentials, once questioned further by internal security, fled upon more detailed questioning. Some imposters have been identified and investigations are in progress.

Regarding reports of active surveillance and photography or videotaping of critical infrastructure, the report states that the ìnumber of incidents of suspicious activity reported to police agencies has risen dramatically since April. Details regarding these activities were less specific in terms of their disposition.

Attempts to gain access to confidential, proprietary and information described as ìsensitiveî via computer have also risen sharply. According to specific reports, attempts included both those of ìintrusionî as well as those involving individuals conducting pretexts via e-mail. The report describes the latter form of these attempts as ìcreativeî and seeking to exploit human vulnerabilities.

In situations involving individuals engaged in the above activities witnessed by law enforcement, security personnel and others, suspects have been described primarily as well groomed Arab men appearing to be in the 25-40 year-old age group, although men appearing to be of Hispanic origin also accounted for 10-15 percent of the incidents described. Further, a number of suspects were identified as Caucasians within the same general age range.

Everyone in the emergency sector as well as those involved in the security of our critical infrastructure are advised to be on a heightened state of alert for the activities described above.

[cozmosis]

This "special alert" was published 20 May 2005 by an outfit called the Northeast Intelligence Network. They claim to combat terrorism by "investigation, research & analysis." It's run by a private investigaor named Douglas J. Hagmann. He's listed as the author of the special alert.

Web Site: http://www.homelandsecurityus.com
Special Alert: http://www.homelandsecurityus.com/alerts.asp

[E229Lt]

Thanks Coz, not exactly a great piece now, is it?

[firepics]

I dunno.....seems like alot of very general "specifics"

[firenresq77]

Originally posted by cozmosis
This "special alert" was published 20 May 2005 by an outfit called the Northeast Intelligence Network. They claim to combat terrorism by "investigation, research & analysis." It's run by a private investigaor named Douglas J. Hagmann. He's listed as the author of the special alert.

Web Site: http://www.homelandsecurityus.com
Special Alert: http://www.homelandsecurityus.com/alerts.asp

Wonder if he is the "Law Enforcement Version" of Doug Copp........

[firepics]

I was thinking the same thing. Looks like somebody trying to make a buck.

[Dave1983]

Regardless, still a good reminder to keep your eyes open and your stations/equipment secure.