Solutions to Manage Post-Election Chaos
There is increasing concern about the period of uncertainty that is anticipated following the election. It is likely to be a very dynamic situation of unpredictable duration and civil unrest may range from minor protests to wider spread violence. Frustrations are expected to mount as days pass while votes are tallied, and in some states, decisions are handed over to the courts. The refusal to accept the results by either side may spark a clash of forces including local and/or federal law enforcement, vigilantes and protesters. It is important for companies and families alike to prepare for the range of scenarios that may play out.
Actionable Intelligence
Early detection of disruptions and threats facilitates better security planning, threat reduction and response. It is advisable to set-up a Threat Intelligence Monitoring program to forestall possible action against targeted firms, people or locations.
Proximity alerts play an important role in managing risks associated with everyday and special circumstances. Geofencing certain locations can provide warnings that allow for adjustments to security operations as a threat posture changes. Threat escalation protocols provide clear guidance when intelligence about potentially harmful actions warrants additional investigation or protective personnel.
Review / Update Suspicious Communications Procedures
The pandemic has altered office operations and upended longstanding security practices when it comes to mail handling and managing suspicious phone calls and emails. Fresh thinking is required when preparing for unsolicited contacts that may occur on and after Election Day. Review procedures to determine if there is a clear avenue to report all suspicious calls and emails in a quick and accessible manner. Now is the time to check mailroom security operations and refresh procedures to accommodate changes made during the pandemic.
Assess Security Posture of Key Executives
As opposed to the multi-layered security in a corporate office building, executives may be far more vulnerable when they are at their home. In light of tumult predicted around this year’s election, it may be necessary to prepare for the possibility of unsolicited contact by protesters at the residence of certain executives—especially if they are not living in a primary residence with established physical and operational security procedures. Second homes may be less hardened than the primary residence, making them more vulnerable to criminal or violent acts. Review the current risk profile of key executives. Ensure they have received a security and safety briefing to remind them of protocols in place and allow for a discussion of any upgrades that are needed.
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Communicate During Dynamic Situations
Workforce communications have never been more important. Across the board, the psychological and behavioral landscape is quite different now than at the beginning of the year and everyone is feeling the stress from the extended lockdown and disruption of everyday patterns. New safety issues beget new responsibilities as employers strive to meet evolving Duty of Care standards.
There is an opportunity to advance a culture of safety by serving as a trusted source of reliable information and letting employees know their wellbeing is important to the company. As appropriate, consider the following practices:
Plan to address disruption and chaos that is likely on Election Day and the post-election period that may well extend into December. This will be an evolving situation so communications can underscore that there is a process to gather and analyze intelligence that is relevant to the company and employees.
Convey intelligence to employees. Inform personnel about demonstrations or potentially disruptive activities that may occur in proximity to office locations.
Educate on threat intake, evaluation and management procedures.
Remind employees that there is an Emergency Action Plan in place.
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