A Potential Threat

Schneier mentions a new “Citizen Counter-Terrorists” program in Manchester. The hotline asks callers 10 questions concerning their potential terrorist neighbor. Let’s see if I fit the bill.

  1. Do you know anyone who travels but is vague on where they're going? Check
  2. Do you know someone with documents in different names for no obvious reason? Check
  3. Do you know someone buying large or unusual quantities of chemicals for no obvious reason? No
  4. Handling chemicals is dangerous, maybe you've seen goggles or masks dumped somewhere? Check
  5. If you work in commercial vehicle hire or sales, has a sale or rental made you suspicious? n/a
  6. Have you seen someone with large quantities of mobiles? No
  7. Have you seen anyone taking pictures of security arrangements? Check
  8. Do you know someone who visits terrorist-related websites? Check
  9. Have you seen any suspicious cheque or credit card transactions? Check
  10. Is someone is asking for a short-term let on a house or flat on a cash basis for no apparent reason? No

Looks like I meet 6/10 of their requirements for being a terrorist. 60% isn’t considered a passing grade, in my experience. Take that, you pesky neighbors!