Please Be Aware
While yesterday’s terrorist synagogue attack in Manchester, UK was devastating, we saw heroes emerge in the tragedy. The Rabbi did exactly what we train to do in our Run, Hide, Fight model by barricading the congregants and keeping them safe. The tragedy was also a reminder of the importance of preparedness and training. See full article at Manchester rabbi hailed as hero for barricading synagogue door amid deadly terror attack (timesof israel.com).
Secure Community Network released a bulletin outlining the current threat environment in regard to artificial intelligence (AI) driven extremism. Bad actors are increasingly leveraging AI tools to amplify their propaganda and refine attack related guidance. For full bulletin visit SCN Bulletin: AI-Driven Extremism – Implications for the Jewish Community in North America.
The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) published a report named “Hate in the Keystone State: Extremism & Antisemitism in Pennsylvania.” Pennsylvania (PA) saw an 18% increase in antisemitic incidents from 2023 to 2024 and was ranked the fourth highest state in the country. See report at Hate in the Keystone State: Extremism & Antisemitism in Pennsylvania (adl.org).
So far in 2025, we have logged 261 incidents in our Virtual Command Center. This compares to 244 for 2024. We continue to collaborate closely with law enforcement to monitor potential threat activity. Please continue to report any suspicious incidents via the Incident Report Form.
Security Matters in the News This Week
- 4 dead, 8 injured in Michigan church shooting and fire set by gunman: Police (abcnew.go.com)
- Manchester synagogue terrorist ID’d as British citizen of Syrian descent; 3 suspects in custody (timesofisrael.com)
- Houses of worship tighten security amid rising attacks (washingtonpost.com)
- Reported threat at Jewish Congregation of Venice prompts large police response (wtsp.com)
BluePoint Status
BluePoint is now live in 33 of the 36 locations. Police boxes have been installed at 29 of our organizations, enabling law enforcement to have immediate access in an emergency.
Security Resources and/or Training
A Practical Discussion on Physical Security Improvements
Ask the Security Experts Join Secure Community Network for an interactive conversation about today’s most important physical security challenges. Hear practical recommendations from a nationally recognized security expert and leave with strategies you can put into action. PREPARE • PLAN • STRENGTHEN Speakers Debbie Gottlieb Director of Grants Management Secure Community Network Jeffrey Slotnick Founder & President, Setracon
Cyber Security & Digital Media Safety: Part A
Green Tree, PA 15205 United States + Google Map
Students are More Connected Than Ever to Technology How do we keep them safe in the world of digital media? The Jewish Federation joins forces with the Catholic Schools Office of the Diocese of Pittsburgh, the FBI, the US Attorney General's Office and the PA State Police to educate learners and families. PART A: October 8 at 6:00 PM Learn more about the dangers our kids are facing each and every day from the experts. PART B: October 15 at 6:00 PM Join us again for a Hands-on technology workshop ...
Cyber Security & Digital Media Safety: Part B
Green Tree, PA 15205 United States + Google Map
Students are More Connected Than Ever to Technology How do we keep them safe in the world of digital media? The Jewish Federation joins forces with the Catholic Schools Office of the Diocese of Pittsburgh, the FBI, the US Attorney General's Office and the PA State Police to educate learners and families. PART A: October 8 at 6:00 PM Learn more about the dangers our kids are facing each and every day from the experts. PART B: October 15 at 6:00 PM Join us again for a Hands-on technology workshop ...
In the event of an emergency, please be aware that we have adopted the Standard Response Protocol to best communicate across communities and emergency response teams.
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If you need Go Bags, Emergency Safety Procedures Flip Charts or medical supplies contact Erin Fagan at efagan@jfedpgh.org or 412-992-5252.
