People can notice, check and report warning signs, while taking practical steps to protect themselves and others.
A student notices a friend repeatedly endorsing violence against civilians and expressing an intention to take part. Reporting those words through a trusted adult or the relevant authorities gives trained people a chance to assess the concern.
Vigilance means paying attention to relevant signs and responding responsibly. Concerns about terrorism should focus on behaviour and evidence, not someone's appearance, religion or nationality. A person need not prove a crime before seeking help, but should describe what they actually observed rather than spread accusations.
For cyber threats, check unexpected requests through a known official contact or app instead of trusting the message's link. Use strong, unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication where available: another kind of identity check in addition to your password. Keep software updated and protect passwords and one-time codes. These habits reduce risks; they do not guarantee that every system is safe.
Report credible concerns promptly through appropriate channels and avoid confronting a suspected attacker or publicly circulating personal accusations. Individuals can supply information and avoid some risks, but agencies and service providers still need to investigate and protect shared systems. Victimisation does not by itself prove that a person was careless.
Worked example: Passing on a concern responsibly
A classmate repeatedly praises violent attacks and tells friends that he wants to participate in violence. Mei tells a trusted teacher exactly what she heard and when. The concern is passed to the relevant authorities for assessment. She does not post the classmate's details publicly or try to investigate him herself.
- Mei's concern is based on expressed support and intentions, rather than the classmate's identity or ordinary beliefs.
- Specific observations give the teacher and authorities something they can assess. Mei does not need to decide the person's legal guilt.
- Using a responsible channel can enable early intervention while avoiding public rumours and untested accusations.
- A report is not proof of a threat or a completed solution. Trained authorities must assess the information and decide what action is warranted.
Watch out for this
Being vigilant means treating people from a particular background as suspicious.
Identity is not evidence of a security threat. Notice specific conduct, check uncertain information and use appropriate reporting channels without blaming a whole group.
Check your understanding
A message says your library account will close unless you enter your password through its link immediately. Which response best demonstrates vigilance?
- Enter the password quickly because the message is urgent.
- Forward the message widely and say the library has definitely been hacked.
- Use the library's known official app or contact details to check the request without using the message's link.