HUNTSVILLE-The FBI and the Department of Homeland Security are both warning members of the military to keep a close eye on their social media accounts and perhaps even consider removing them.
The bulletin, released overnight Sunday, says that ISIS terrorists are looking for like-minded individuals to carry out terrorist attacks on current or retired members of the military and their families. Officials are cautioning current and former military members to take a close look at their social media accounts and remove anything that could tip off terrorists to their locations.
Shortly after the bulletin was sent out Redstone Arsenal released the following tips about social media usage.
■ Avoid posting your home or work address and phone numbers or any government or military affiliation.
■ Think before you post and assume everyone in the world will be able to see what you are posting, or tweeting, even if the site limits your posts to your friends and family.
■ Limit who can view your social media sites; but do not trust these settings as absolute.
■ Avoid providing detailed accounts of your day (e.g., when you leave for or return from work).
■ Never allow applications to geolocate your location.
At home
■ Always lock doors, windows and garages.
■ Make sure home entrances are well-lighted, and minimize bushes where intruders can hide before their ambush.
■ Use the peephole before opening the door to anyone. Don’t use the chain latch to open the door part-way. Don’t open the door to solicitors or strangers.
■ Install solid-core doors, heavy-duty locks and window security systems.
■ Establish a safe haven.
■ Hold a family meeting to work out home security plans.
According to the local FBI office in Birmingham the bulletin was sent out to all federal, state, and local law enforcement officials as well as private sector security companies in an effort to keep as many people aware of the threat as possible. The FBI continues to ask that if you “see something say something.” If you notice any suspicious activity you are asked to contact the FBI with that information.
MEDIA RELEASE/REDSTONEALABAMA.COM/Hollie Thrasher
