Terrorism

Key Points

• Current threat level: SUBSTANTIAL
• Threat comes principally from Al Qaida and related networks
• Northern Ireland-related terrorism also still a threat

Terror threat levels explained

There are five levels of threat, which are set by the MI5 and the Joint Terrorism Analysis Centre. The level they set is based on information gathered by intelligence services and the police about known or suspected terrorist plots.
The levels are:

• low - attack is unlikely
• moderate - attack is possible, but not likely
• substantial - attack is a strong possibility
• severe - attack is highly likely
• critical - attack is expected imminently

Severe is the second from top terror threat level. It means that an attack is highly likely, but that current information does not suggest attempted terrorist activity will take place in the near future.

Reporting suspected terrorism

Suspicious about terrorism? - Report it online or by calling 0800 789 321 - in an emergency, call 999
If you suspect somebody of being involved in terrorism in any way, you should report it to people who can help.
You can:

• call 999 in an emergency
• call the police counter-terrorism hotline on 0800 789 321
• contact the Security Service (MI5) directly through their website (a link can be found below)

You can remain anonymous, and you may save lives.