Homeland News

Homeland

Federal agencies respond to increased drone sightings across northeast US

More than one million drones are registered with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in the United States, with thousands operating commercially, recreationally, and for law enforcement purposes daily.
Homeland

DHS, Snap offer virtual resource for teens

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced a collaboration with Snap Inc. to introduce the Know2Protect Snapchat Lens, a virtual tool aimed at helping teenagers identify and navigate online risks. This initiative is part of the DHS's Know2Protect campaign, which seeks to educate and empower various stakeholders about online child sexual exploitation and abuse.
Homeland

DHS signs memorandum with Poland's Ministry to enhance cybersecurity partnership

On October 1, 2024, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Polish Ministry of Digital Affairs (MDA) formalized a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to enhance collaboration in cybersecurity and emerging technology. This agreement aims to strengthen the existing partnership by providing a framework for future cooperation in policy and operations. It also signifies a mutual commitment to the transatlantic security alliance in addressing global challenges like cybersecurity and artificial intelligence amid Russia's ongoing invasion of Ukraine.
Homeland

DHS highlights ongoing high threat levels from terrorism in 2025 assessment

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has released its 2025 Homeland Threat Assessment, highlighting the persistent threat of domestic and foreign terrorism within the United States. The report aims to inform both the public and DHS partners about potential threats to public safety and security, helping federal, state, and local agencies prepare for evolving challenges.
Homeland

DHS adds Chinese steel and aspartame firms to forced labor entity list

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced the inclusion of two companies from the People's Republic of China on the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act (UFLPA) Entity List. This action increases the total number of entities on the list to 75, as part of efforts to combat forced labor and address human rights abuses in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region.
Homeland

Homeland Security announces $210M fund boost for protecting nonprofits

The United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced the allocation of $210 million in Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP) funds through the Federal Emergency Management Agency. This funding represents the second tranche of additional funds secured by the Biden-Harris Administration to protect faith-based institutions and nonprofit organizations from targeted attacks. The Notice of Funding Opportunity will be published later in October.
Homeland

Biden directs FEMA Administrator Criswell to remain in North Carolina until stabilization

FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell is currently in North Carolina to survey damage with Governor Roy Cooper. She will stay in the state until the situation stabilizes, as directed by President Biden.
Homeland

Mayorkas calls for congressional action following new border security rule

Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas has released a statement regarding the Department of Homeland Security-Department of Justice joint final rule, which follows the joint interim final rule issued in June. This new rule continues to limit asylum eligibility and significantly increases timely consequences for those who cross illegally at the southern border without a legal basis to remain in the United States.
Homeland

Weekend interview: The power of vigilance, Karinda Washington on DHS’s 'See' 'Say' campaign against terrorism

Karinda Washington is the executive director for Social Impact at the Department of Homeland Security. She oversees the “See Something, Say Something” campaign, which educates the public on recognizing signs of terrorism and violent extremism.
Homeland

DHS honors employees at annual awards ceremony in Los Angeles

On September 26, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) held an awards ceremony in Los Angeles, hosted by the U.S. Secret Service (USSS). During this event, 173 employees were honored with a Secretary’s Award for their significant contributions to the department's mission.
Homeland

DHS outlines safety measures during Hurricane Helene

During emergency events, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) collaborates with federal, state, local, and non-governmental partners to support affected populations.
Homeland

DHS outlines safety measures during Tropical Storm Helene

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has issued a statement regarding safety and enforcement measures during Tropical Storm Helene. During emergency events, DHS collaborates with federal, state, local, and non-governmental partners to support affected communities.
Homeland

DHS observes National “If You See Something, Say Something” Awareness Day

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is observing #SeeSayDay, the annual national awareness day for the “If You See Something, Say Something®” campaign. This year's theme, "Spot the Signs. Report the Activity," emphasizes public vigilance in national security and counter-terrorism efforts within the current threat environment. The initiative encourages individuals to report suspicious activity to help prevent terrorism-related crime not only on September 25 but throughout the year.
Homeland

South Texas man gets 38 years in prison for gunpoint extortion of migrants

Heriberto Mendez-Lozano, 26, received a 38-year sentence for committing hostage-taking and human smuggling, among other charges, on September 17, according to a September 18 news release from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) unit.
Homeland

Qatar joins US Visa Waiver Program after meeting stringent security criteria

Today, Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas, in consultation with Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken, announced the designation of Qatar into the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). This collaboration aims to enhance U.S. security interests while promoting legitimate travel and commerce between the two nations.
Homeland

Florida man pleads guilty to attempting to entice minor

A Florida man has pleaded guilty to attempting to entice a minor to engage in sexual activity. The plea follows an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Orlando.
Homeland

DHS announces $279.9 million for state & local cybersecurity grants

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced the availability of $279.9 million in grant funding for the Fiscal Year 2024 State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Program (SLCGP). Now in its third year, this program aims to help state, local, and territorial governments reduce cyber risk and build resilience against evolving cybersecurity threats.
Homeland

Orlando man pleads guilty to enticement of minor, producing child abuse material

An Orlando man has pleaded guilty to charges of enticement of a minor for sexual activity and production of child sexual abuse material. The plea follows an investigation conducted by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI).
Homeland

DHS allocates $18 million to prevent targeted violence through new grants

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has awarded 35 grants totaling $18 million under the Targeted Violence and Terrorism Prevention (TVTP) Grant Program for Fiscal Year 2024. The program aims to develop sustainable, multidisciplinary prevention capabilities in local communities, pilot innovative approaches, and identify best practices that can be replicated nationwide.
Homeland

Biden-Harris administration announces new executive actions targeting surge in de minimis shipments

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), particularly U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), is at the forefront of new executive actions announced by the Biden-Harris Administration aimed at protecting American consumers, workers, retailers, importers, and manufacturers. These actions address the surge in small packages claiming the de minimis exemption.
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