Internertional Association for Healthcare Security and Safety (IAHSS) Basic Officer Certification Practice Exam

Which of the following is NOT one of the seven signs of terrorism?

1. Surveillance

2. Communication

3. Test of security

4. Acquiring supplies and assets

The correct answer is: Communication

The seven signs of terrorism typically include behaviors and activities that may indicate suspicious intentions. Surveillance is a critical component, as individuals or groups may observe potential targets for vulnerabilities. Testing security is another sign, as those planning a terrorist act might probe defenses to gauge response capabilities. Acquiring supplies and assets, such as weapons or materials for explosive devices, is also a common precursor to terrorist activities. Communication is essential in many contexts and can involve necessary interactions that are not inherently suspicious. It may include everyday activities such as coordinating logistics, contacting vendors, or even communicating within organizations. Therefore, while communication is an important aspect of many operations, it does not specifically indicate the likelihood of terrorism and is not classified as one of the seven signs. This distinction is crucial in understanding how to identify potential threats while maintaining awareness that not all communication is linked to malicious intent.