Election Day is more than just a day to exercise your right to vote. It can also bring heightened security concerns due to rising tensions, civil unrest, and even targeted threats. Whether you're an individual looking to protect your personal safety or a business owner concerned about operations, it's essential to understand the potential risks and take proactive steps to safeguard yourself and your assets.
In this article, we’ll explore the documented threats surrounding Election Day, what steps you can take to protect yourself and your business, and how to navigate the uncertain days that follow.
Past Real-World Election Day Threats
Recent elections have seen a variety of security threats, some of which have had significant impacts on communities and businesses:
2020 Ballot Box Fires: Several cases of arson were reported across the U.S. during the 2020 election, including a well-known incident in Boston where a ballot drop box was set on fire, destroying 35 ballots. This illustrates how physical threats can disrupt the democratic process and cause widespread concern.
Armed Threats Near Polling Stations: In 2020, two armed individuals were arrested near a ballot counting center after an FBI tip warned of potential violence. This is a stark reminder that tensions can escalate quickly and pose direct threats to people and operations.
2023 Election Worker Threats: In a disturbing example of how far threats can go, election officials across multiple states received threatening letters laced with fentanyl. These incidents caused delays in vote counting and forced temporary shutdowns of election offices, highlighting how targeted attacks can disrupt both public services and private businesses.
These events emphasize the need for individuals and businesses to stay vigilant, not only on Election Day but in the days that follow as results are tallied and tensions remain high.
How Individuals Can Protect Themselves
Stay Aware and Informed
The most important step in protecting yourself is staying informed. Monitor local news outlets, emergency alerts, and social media to keep track of potential protests, roadblocks, or other disruptions in your area. This will allow you to avoid areas where tensions are high. Consider signing up for local law enforcement alerts, which can notify you of unrest or dangerous situations near your location.
Avoid High-Risk Areas
Polling locations, government buildings, and urban centers often become flashpoints for protests or civil unrest. If possible, steer clear of these areas, especially during peak voting hours and in the days following Election Day when emotions can run high. If you must pass through these areas, try to do so during the day, when situations tend to be more controlled, and have alternate routes planned in case of closures or disturbances.
Strengthen Your Online Presence
With the surge in misinformation and cyberattacks around election periods, make sure your online accounts are secure. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on your accounts, and be wary of any suspicious emails or social media messages related to the election. Scammers often take advantage of politically charged moments to spread phishing schemes, so stay alert for messages that ask for personal information or encourage you to click on unfamiliar links.
Emergency Planning at Home
Create an emergency plan for you and your family in case unrest spills into your neighborhood. This could include having a backup route home, a meeting point if you get separated, and enough food, water, and essential supplies for a few days. If you’re at home and notice unrest in your area, lock your doors, turn off any lights near windows, and avoid going outside until it’s safe to do so.
Know Your Rights at the Polls
If you’re voting in person, it’s important to know your rights. Election Day should be free of intimidation or threats, but unfortunately, that isn’t always the case. If you encounter suspicious activity, threats, or any form of intimidation at your polling station, alert an election official immediately, or contact local law enforcement if necessary.
How Businesses Can Protect Themselves
Conduct a Security Assessmen
Before Election Day, perform a thorough security review of your business premises. Are your surveillance cameras functioning properly? Are your entry points secure? Can your building withstand possible vandalism or unrest? Depending on your location, it might be worth boarding up windows or temporarily closing high-risk areas. Businesses near polling stations or government buildings are particularly vulnerable and may need extra precautions.
Revisit Your Business Continuity Plan
Election Day disruptions can cause more than just security risks—they can impact your entire operation. Review your business continuity plan to ensure you’re prepared for unexpected closures, civil unrest, or supply chain issues. If your business relies on deliveries or foot traffic, consider alternatives or flexible work-from-home arrangements. Make sure all employees know how to stay in contact during emergencies.
Strengthen Your Cybersecurity Protocols
With the increased focus on election security, cybercriminals often take advantage of the chaos. Protect your business from potential cyberattacks by reviewing your digital infrastructure. Update firewalls, educate employees on phishing risks, and back up critical data. Your employees are often the first line of defense, so ensure they are vigilant and know what to do if they encounter suspicious emails or activity.
Communicate with Local Authorities
If your business is located in a high-risk area, it’s worth coordinating with local law enforcement. They can offer guidance, and in some cases, increase patrols around your business during volatile periods. Staying in touch with community safety programs can also give you a heads-up about potential problems before they become serious.
Prepare for Unrest and Vandalism
If your business is located in an area where protests are likely, consider hiring extra security or temporarily closing. Evaluate your storefront for vulnerabilities, such as large windows that could be easily damaged. If possible, move valuable merchandise out of sight or store it in secure locations. It’s better to be over-prepared than caught off guard.
Keep Employees and Customers Informed
Make sure your employees are aware of your security plans and know how to stay safe during unrest. You should also have a clear communication strategy for customers. If you need to close temporarily, make sure customers are notified via email or social media. The more transparent you are, the better your chances of maintaining trust and loyalty through the disruption.
Protecting Businesses and Individuals Post-Election Day
Election Day doesn’t mean the end of tensions. In the days that follow, as results are finalized, there may still be unrest, protests, and increased security risks. Both individuals and businesses should remain vigilant during this period and continue taking steps to ensure safety.
If your business needs assistance in securing its operations or protecting your digital infrastructure during this time, consider reaching out to us. Our experienced team can help you assess risks and implement tailored security measures to safeguard your assets. Whether you’re concerned about physical security, cybersecurity, or business continuity, we offer solutions to keep your business protected. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help.
By staying informed, prepared, and proactive, you can protect yourself, your family, and your business from the potential dangers surrounding Election Day. It’s always better to be ready for the unexpected, and with the right precautions, you can navigate this challenging time with confidence.
Commentaires