Action Counters Terrorism

Like other criminals, terrorists need to plan. They need to prepare, buy and store materials, and find ways to fund their activities. Much of this is done in view of the public.

When you make a report about suspicious activity or behaviour, our specially trained officers and police staff will take the details and pass these on for further checks. The information you provide will be kept secure and your identity will be protected.

Your call is not recorded and you do not need to give your name. Don’t be concerned about wasting police time.

Terrorists use the internet to provoke individuals to carry out attacks in the UK.

One post or video has the power to influence vulnerable people and inspire extremists and terrorists. This is why it is important to tackle online terrorism.

You can help us stop terrorists’ and extremists’ online presence by reporting content such as:

• Speeches or essays calling for racial or religious violence
• Videos of violence with messages in praise of terrorists
• Postings inciting people to commit acts of terrorism or violent extremism
• Messages intended to stir up hatred against any religious or ethnic group
• Bomb-making instructions
• Advice on how to obtain or make weapons

If you see online graphic or violent extremist material or content that supports, directs or glorifies terrorism please report it using our anonymous online reporting form.

A specialist police team will examine the content and will work with internet companies to remove it if appropriate.

We have more information available about reporting online content.

While the chances of being caught up in a terrorist incident remain rare, it is important to be prepared and know how to protect yourself if the need arises.

Counter Terrorism Policing has released guidance that sets out three key steps for keeping safe in the event of a firearms or weapons attack.

If you are caught up in an incident our advice is to ‘Run, Hide and Tell’ – guidance which can be applied to many places and situations. We know from case studies and testimony of people who have survived attacks that this advice can save lives.

We’ve teamed up with TV stars, sporting heroes and influential figures to launch a series of films designed to teach young people how to keep safe in a gun or knife terror attack.

Designed to teach 11-16 year olds how to act in the unlikely event they are caught in a gun or knife attack, the ‘ACT For Youth’ campaign reinvents the successful ‘Run, Hide, Tell’ public information films for a new generation.

The message to children is simple: RUN if they are able to, HIDE if they can not, and TELL police of the threat only when it is safe to do so. We also advise to warn others about an on-going threat, and crucially NOT to stop and use mobile phones until safely away from danger. Watch our new video below, and remember: Real Champions Run.