SCN Launches 2025 High Holiday Security Briefing Series with Focus on Threat Landscape, Preparedness Roadmap, and Key Resources 

Inaugural Session Brought Together Over One Thousand Registrants for Overview on Evolving Threats and Community Readiness 

Today, the Secure Community Network (SCN), the official safety and security organization for the Jewish community in North America, launched its annual High Holiday security briefing series to help Jewish communities prepare with confidence ahead of this year’s High Holiday season.

This week’s virtual kick-off session brought together over one thousand participants from across North America, providing a first look at the evolving threat environment and a roadmap for enhancing preparedness at every level of Jewish life, from synagogues and schools to Jewish Community Centers (JCCs).

The briefing included timely threat intelligence from SCN’s Jewish Security Operations Command Center, actionable guidance, and a personal safety overview titled “Situational Awareness: Before, During, & After Services,” designed to equip participants with key tools to stay alert and responsive during the holidays.

In the weeks ahead, SCN will roll out its full 2025 High Holiday preparedness series calendar. This includes featured sessions on securing synagogues, cybersecurity best practices, countering emerging threats, and ensuring accessibility and emergency preparedness. These efforts are being conducted in coordination with our synagogue movement partners and other centers of Jewish life to meet the varying needs of our diverse Jewish communities.

SCN’s regional security directors and local community security professionals are already working closely with law enforcement agencies nationwide to ensure High Holiday security needs are anticipated and addressed. Communities are encouraged to connect with their local security professional to conduct High Holiday security assessments, update emergency plans, and coordinate directly with law enforcement ahead of the high-traffic season.

In light of recent critical incidents, SCN and partners are emphasizing a comprehensive set of recommendations for communities to enhance vigilance, which includes Eight Security Recommendations for Hosting Public or Community Events, outlining actionable steps to reduce risk and increase preparedness. 

Other Resources Include:

• Recognize the Signs of Terrorism-Related Suspicious Activity | DHS  
• Active Shooter Attacks: Security Awareness for Soft Targets and Crowded Places  | DHS  
• Suspicious Activity Reporting: Indicators and Examples | DHS  
• Low-Cost/No-Cost Security Measures for Jewish Facilities  
• Communicated Threats Checklist  
• Leadership Safety Guide  
• Facility Security Guidance 

To report suspicious activity, contact your local law enforcement agency and reach SCN at 844-SCN-DESK or [email protected]. 

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