Security awareness in action

In January an Information Management (IM) Division worker saw two people with video cameras in front of the Otowi Building at Technical Area 3. The worker noted that the individuals, who appeared to be foreign nationals, were not badged or escorted. He asked them if they had received permission from the Laboratory to be filming on Lab property. The individuals said they did not have permission to film on Lab property. The IM worker asked the individuals to stop filming and immediately reported the situation to his supervisor. The IM worker also asked a nearby taxi driver to call Protection Technology Los Alamos.

The individuals quickly packed up their cameras and drove off. Protective force officers located the individuals near the Chemistry and Metallurgy Reserach Building. The officers stopped the individuals and contacted the Office of Security Inquiries (S-OSI), which coordinated with Public Affairs (PA) to determine what the individuals were doing and what they had filmed. Their videotapes were reviewed and found to contain footage of Laboratory technical areas along West Jemez Road and Diamond Drive.

The individuals were foreign nationals working for the Chinese-language version of FOX News based in New York City. They did not have permission to film on Laboratory property.

The Laboratory worker practiced excellent operational security by being aware of his environment, recognizing an unusual situation and reporting his observations to Laboratory authorities.

Laboratory workers who observe suspicious activity should call S-OSI at 5-3505 or PTLA at 7-4437. The Laboratory fully supports proactive reporting, and security professionals need the support of all Lab workers to identify and respond to potential security situations.

For nonemergency questions and concerns related to security, contact the Security Help Desk at 5-2002 or write to security@lanl.gov by electronic mail.

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