Jewish Community Is The Most-Targeted Religious Group In FBI’s 2023 Hate Crime Report, Facing 21% Surge Amidst Unprecedented Post-07 October Threat Environment

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) 2023 Hate Crime Report, released today, reveals that the Jewish community remains the most-targeted religious group, with 1,832 anti-Jewish reported hate crimes accounting for 67% of all religiously motivated hate crimes recorded by the FBI, up from 56% (1,124) the prior year in the wake of the 07 October Hamas terrorist attacks on Israel. These incidents include property damage, vandalism, harassment, assault, burglary, false bomb threats, and swatting incidents.

The FBI’s report carries added significance following the 07 October attacks, which fueled increased violence and harassment against Jewish communities across North America. While extremist groups, sympathizers, and politically motivated individuals have driven the rise in hate crimes, law enforcement agencies have successfully disrupted multiple plots and swiftly brought offenders to justice. Additionally, the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting Program (UCR) saw a marked improvement in data collection, with participating agencies increasing from 77.5% to 83.5% compared to the previous year. Accurate data is essential for informing law enforcement and partners about evolving threats, enabling better community protection by directing appropriate resources, and adjusting security strategies to meet the threat environment.

While hate crimes against the Jewish community surged, the FBI data does not fully reflect the scope of the threat. SCN has played a critical role in tracking, responding to, and mitigating threats to the Jewish community through partnerships with law enforcement and communal organizations. In 2023, SCN referred 1,619 individuals to law enforcement, a 110% increase from the previous year. SCN also logged over 5,404 incidents and suspicious activity reports, with over 2,628 occurring in the months following 07 October—surpassing the total for all of 2022. SCN data also reflects a threat environment that has gotten increasingly complex and dynamic in 2024 following the window of the 2023 FBI Hate Crimes Statistics Report.

SCN’s security shield, developed in response to previous critical incidents such as Pittsburgh, Poway, and Colleyville, was well-prepared to mobilize to protect the community. SCN’s comprehensive security infrastructure includes the 24/7 National Jewish Security Operations Command Center (JSOCC), which maintains a direct line to the FBI’s National Threat Operations Center (NTOC), enabling rapid communication with federal partners. Additionally, SCN’s localized security professionals across North America work closely with law enforcement, provide essential training, and coordinate responses to protect Jewish institutions. In the immediate aftermath of 07 October, SCN worked closely with top U.S. officials, including President Joe Biden, FBI Director Christopher Wray, and key figures from the Department of Homeland Security and the Department of Justice.

SCN urges every community to remain vigilant, review and enforce existing security protocols, and maintain coordination and communication with law enforcement and security personnel. For imminent threats or emergencies, dial 9-1-1, and report all suspicious activity to local law enforcement as well as appropriate local reporting authorities, and SCN’s 24/7 Duty Desk at  [email protected] or by calling 844-SCN-DESK.

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