Lessons from the Field: Security as Strategy, Not Just Reaction
A Shifting Political Landscape and Its Impact on Media Security
In 2025, the new administration in Washington DC has ushered in many changes, and it has done so at a pace that makes detailed analysis of each a significant challenge in real time. The new political environment has fundamentally altered the risk profile of various organizations, specifically media organizations perceived as critical of the new administration and other organizations that have publicly taken left-leaning and/or pro-DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) stances.
The potential for violence targeted at specific types of media members and political partisans is growing.
An example of this new threat took place on 23 February in Washington, when a political conference had to be evacuated due to death threats against two named speakers who have been publicly critical of President Donald Trump. An email received by event organizers stated that pipe bombs had been planted, named two speakers in particular as their targets, and has been attributed by local law enforcement to have come from either members or sympathizers of the far-right militia group The Proud Boys. The conference had been described as ‘center-right,’ though several scheduled speakers had a long, public history of vocal opposition to the new president and his administration’s policies.
Extremist Empowerment and the Risk of Targeted Violence
There is a growing number of active groups in the US with the intent to confront – possibly violently – media members perceived as opposing the new administration and others who are politically aligned against it. The recent pardoning and release of all those convicted of crimes during the events at the US Capitol on 6 January 2021 are likely to have bolstered these groups’ numbers. The ease of access to firearms of all calibers and types in the US and the common galvanizing motive contribute to the potential for this type of threat to lead to targeted violence. The Trump administration’s intimations have suggested a permissive, perhaps even encouraging, environment for confrontations targeting their vocal critics.
For media members, this change in the threat environment in the US has arisen amidst rapidly growing global interest in coverage of the policies of the new administration. Media organizations are therefore faced with a unique challenge; how to ensure adequate protection of their journalists and staff in the US, while also making increased investments in coverage of the country in the current environment of rapid policy change.
Elevated Rhetoric, Elevated Risk
Public comments by Donald Trump have mainly suggested the potential for aggressive actions towards domestic media that oppose his administration, though foreign media have not been immune from his ire. Both foreign and domestic media companies, especially those who may be perceived as supporting viewpoints opposed to the Trump administration, are therefore advised to adopt enhanced risk mitigation measures going forward.
We don’t always control the threat, but we do control how we prepare and respond.
Organizations and companies perceived as antagonistic or opposed to the new political reality or who publicly resist conforming to the administration’s anti-DEI position should also increase their readiness for potential threats.
Proactive Protection Requires Planning, Not Panic
In today’s increasingly volatile political climate, media organizations are faced with an urgent need for a proactive approach to security—one that goes beyond merely responding to incidents. To effectively safeguard journalists and ensure uninterrupted coverage of political events, the following mitigation measures are essential:
Comprehensive Threat Monitoring
Ongoing research into the evolving threat landscape ensures potential risks are identified before they escalate.
Mapping of known and emerging threats allows for early detection of groups or individuals that may pose a danger.
Analysis of key issues that typically galvanize hostile actors helps predict potential flashpoints and ensures readiness.
Deep and dark web monitoring to track threats specifically tied to your organization, its staff, or high-profile events, providing early alerts on potential risks.
Early Coordination with Trusted Security Providers
Establish operational readiness by coordinating with security providers in advance. This includes vetting capabilities, confirming coverage areas, and developing strong relationships to ensure rapid deployment should risk conditions heighten.
Liaison with Local Law Enforcement
Proactively engage with local law enforcement when credible threats emerge, sharing situational awareness and maximizing opportunities for coordinated prevention. This partnership ensures immediate action can be taken and strengthens community collaboration in crisis management.
Pre-planned Rapid Response Arrangements
Establish agreements with trusted security teams, ideally on retainer, to ensure swift, decisive mitigation. These plans should include clear scopes, response timelines, and escalation protocols to ensure an immediate, effective response when incidents occur.
Security at Arm’s Length, but Always Ready
Security personnel on standby, while keeping them at arm’s length from active media operations, allows reporters to maintain the independence and freedom they need to do their jobs effectively. This strategic approach ensures security is available when necessary without interfering with the integrity of journalistic activities. It strikes a balance between safeguarding journalists and maintaining their ability to cover sensitive events without compromise.
Crisis Communication Plans
Develop and rehearse crisis communication protocols to ensure immediate and clear messaging during an incident. These protocols should cover all channels, from media inquiries to internal communications, ensuring the organization can manage its reputation in real-time.
Continuous Training and Awareness
Equip journalists with security training, including situational awareness, de-escalation tactics, and personal safety protocols. Well-trained staff are better prepared to navigate dangerous environments and respond effectively to emerging threats.
Cybersecurity and Digital Safety
Implement robust digital security measures, including encrypted communication channels, secure data storage, and real-time threat monitoring, to protect journalists from cyber threats. This ensures the safety of sensitive information, particularly when covering politically charged topics.
Press Freedom Persists, But So Do New Threats
The US has among the best legal protections of free speech in the world and is a highly permissive environment for media operations. This will not change dramatically in the near term. However, the potential for violence targeted at specific types of media members and political partisans is growing.
Security isn’t just about response—it’s about readiness, relationships, and reason.
This will sometimes manifest opportunistically, in a ‘wrong place, wrong time’ manner. Other times, it could be hoax threats or real planned actions that may have been detectable in advance, allowing companies to protect their staff rather than just to respond post-incident.
Strategy Now, Safety Tomorrow
This environment will continue to evolve in the years ahead. Companies and organizations should proactively align with security experts to ensure access to the support they need to keep their staff safe, their operations secure, their valuable reporting reaching their audience, and their chosen policy position intact.
Paul Doucet is the former Regional Director of Security Intelligence & Assistance for the Americas at International SOS. He holds a Master’s degree in International Political Economy from Nanyang Technological University in Singapore and a Risk Management Certificate from the University of Toronto. Paul is widely recognized for his expertise in crisis management, operational security, and intelligence support. Throughout his career, he has helped global organizations navigate complex risk environments with confidence. Known for his thoughtful leadership and calm under pressure, Paul brings a pragmatic and principled approach to protecting people, operations, and reputations.
About effortlo
Effortlo is the world’s only #marketplace exclusively for security professionals, designed to empower companies with unparalleled access to trusted expertise. Our innovative model offers flexibility, transparency, and cost-effective solutions that help organizations address their most pressing security challenges. From embedding top-tier experts to streamlining complex projects, we enable businesses to expand their capabilities without expanding their payroll. By engaging the industry’s best resources, effortlo ensures your security programs are effective, scalable, and tailored to your unique needs.
Do you want to learn more about how effortlo helps companies solve security challenges? Schedule an introduction.
Comments