The Department of Homeland Security has released new guidelines for Faith-Based Communities. This is due to a “heightened threat environment” in part to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. The agency said it has recently increased coordination with “hundreds of community leaders” in “faith-based communities” around the country

Among the list of recommendations are several technology-related solutions. We can help evaluate, quote, and install the following guidelines:

• Monitor parking areas and all access and entry points with video surveillance systems.
• Incorporate access control for critical areas such as IT/electrical rooms, finance offices, and children’s ministries.
• Exercise caution online by:
  • Installing apps only from reputable sources.
  • Monitoring emails for suspicious content.
  • Ensuring devices are up to date.
  • Utilizing third-party vendors to scrub online presence
• Have standardized IT policies and maintenance:
  • Update software/hardware regularly.
  • Require strong passwords for access.
  • Secure all data and files on the network, and secure the router with encryption methods.
  • Periodically check for unauthorized connections or devices
• For schools and daycares on property:
  • Limit access to as few people as possible using a single point of entry, secure other access points, and ensure only authorized visitors are allowed entry with photo identification.
  • Consider using a visitor management system.

You can find the full list of guidelines on the Department of Homeland Security’s website at: https://www.cisa.gov/sites/default/files/2023-12/physical-security-performance-goals-faith-based-communities-508c.pdf

If your organization would like an assessment for recommendations for any of these guidelines, we provide our initial consultations and quotes at no cost.