In 2023, The Secure Community Network identified 927 bomb threats, an increase of 1,016.8%
from 2022. Following the Hamas terrorist attacks of October 7th, SCN identified 853 bomb threats.
Most bomb threats were received via email and, often, distributed in clusters grouped by state and
coordinated between groups claiming responsibility for the bomb threats. While none of these threats
materialized into an actual device being planted or found, these threats have the potential to disrupt
the operations of organizations and facilities in addition to causing fear and anxiety.
Every threat should be treated seriously. With proper planning and preparation, to include with law
enforcement, organizations and facilities can be in a better position to respond to and address
threats. While in certain cases, evacuation may be recommended, in others sheltering in one’s
location, or a designated location, may be more prudent. Some threats may be able to be
dismissed without having to react, based on information available or provided by law enforcement
or other partners.
