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For example, many companies have continued to have an over-reliance on CCTV or have taken totally irrelevant steps such as the removal of litter bins from public areas (something that would deter the terrorist of the ‘70s and ‘80s but won’t help prevent a suicide bombing).
So what key skills are UK security teams missing?
Hostile reconnaissance – the essential skill when seeking to combat a terrorist attack – is often completely overlooked, along with counter-surveillance.
Prior to a terrorist attack, some form of covert reconnaissance will be undertaken. So if your security officers and staff are increasingly vigilant about what goes on in and around your premises, you have a better chance of recognising that someone is behaving suspiciously and a much improved chance of preventing an attack.
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There are more than 15 examples of suspicious behaviour ranging from significant interest being taken in the outside of a building to attempts to disguise identity by wearing a motorcycle helmet or hood. Many security teams simply don’t realise this fact.
The other key area being overlooked relates directly to the different mind-set of the terrorist of today. This requires a change in the public profile of the security officer. Gone are the days where a discrete, almost invisible, presence is acceptable. As a terrorist will assess every potential target location to establish whether a bomber is likely to get stopped and therefore distracted from their ‘mission’, officers now need to have a strong physical presence and actively ‘meet and greet’ all visitors.
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