Security Overview for United States of America

The security situation in the US varies greatly between cities, states and regions. The rate of crime is typically highest in poorer neighborhoods and depressed urban zones. The crime risk typically varies between neighborhoods or even blocks within a city or town, making it difficult to designate any destination as high-risk. In general, prime tourist and business districts typically enjoy higher policing, reducing the risk of violent crime. However, the risk of petty crime is often higher in these regions due to a higher standard of living and wealthier targets. On the whole, individuals should take measures to secure personal belongings and avoid carrying or wearing valuable items.

Public transportation is safe and reliable in most towns, but thieves have been known to prey on passengers in some areas. Crime most often occurs at night on lines that service poorer districts; however, petty thieves may also strike during peak hours when passengers feel a false sense of security and may be more distracted by their surroundings. If unfamiliar with the public transportation system, it is generally best to avoid using it at night. A taxi is a secure, alternate means of transportation.

Civil unrest occurs on a daily basis in the US but rarely disrupts public life. Most large gatherings occur in connection with major political events; national or international summits; and meetings concerning trade and labor. Rioting is extremely rare but occasionally erupts following sporting events that involve rival teams or championships or during politically heated periods; such outbursts are typically quickly contained by law enforcement.

The threat of terrorism is low in the US. However, the perceived threat of international terrorism has remained high since the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, with heightened security measures often implemented during security scares. In actuality, the US faces a much higher risk from domestic terrorist groups, including environmental and anti-abortion activists, though attacks from such organizations still remain rare.

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How we determine a country's overall security rating

Each country's current overall risk rating is determined by considering categorical assessments in kidnapping, crime, security services, civil unrest, terrorism and geopolitical stability.

The crime assessment is based on prevalence of petty crime, violent crime and random violence that could threaten foreigners.
A security services rating is determined by analyzing the trustworthiness and capability of local police and security services.
For civil unrest, we consider the level of violent demonstrations and prevalence of anti-government and/or anti-foreign sentiment.
The terrorism category includes levels of terrorist acts targeting domestic and international targets and state sanctioned terrorism.
The kidnapping rating is assigned by analyzing the occurrence of kidnapping for ransom and political leverage within the country.
An assessment of geopolitical stability considers the political infrastructure and economic stability that affects the overall security environment.

Minimal Threat

Most countries in this category have a stable political infrastructure and economic system with a low rate of unemployment. These countries have overall low rates of crime. Violent crime is almost non-existent. Petty crimes do occur, but are usually limited to petty theft and pick pocketing. Police and military services are trained and trustworthy, but may lack investigative and crime fighting equipment and skills. Strikes and demonstrations are rare and if they occur are usually well planned and managed and rarely spurn violent incidents. There are no known insurgent or terrorist groups.

Low Threat

Most countries in this category will have a stable political infrastructure and economic system with some unemployment. These countries have low crime rates. Violent crimes are rare and usually involve associated persons. Petty crimes such as theft and pick pocketing are a concern and travelers may be directly targeted. Risks can usually be mitigated with simple security measures. Police and military services are well trained and trustworthy but may lack adequate investigative equipment. Incidents of civil unrest such as strikes and demonstrations may disrupt daily life, but are usually non-violent and well coordinated. These countries may experience rare instances of domestic terrorist activity but are not threatened by international terrorism. Anti-government groups may be present but have little or no impact.

Moderate Threat

Most countries in this category will have a somewhat stable political infrastructure and economic system but unemployment and rising inflation cause some instability. These countries have moderate levels of crime. Violent crimes such as sexual assault and murder occur, but few are random incidents. Petty crimes, especially theft or destruction of unattended property, are common. Incidents of armed assault also occur. More threatening crimes are usually limited to urban areas or certain parts of the country. Police and military services may suffer from corruption and lack of training, but are generally adequate for investigations. Strikes and demonstrations can disrupt daily life and may easily spur violence. This country may have a variety of anti-government and domestic terrorist groups that are organized and outspoken against the government and may conduct incidents of violence. Small cells of international terrorist organizations exist but incidents of terrorism are not common.

High Threat

Most countries in the category have unstable political infrastructure and economic system with high rates of unemployment and inflation. Violent and petty crimes are common in most areas and random acts of violence do occur. Some areas may have a general state of lawlessness. Traveling alone, especially at night, should be avoided. There will be a large infiltration of arms in the population. Police and military services lack training and equipment. Both institutions are prone to corruption. Strikes and demonstrations are common and usually violent. Domestic terrorist and insurgent groups are active and well organized. They conduct bombings and other violent acts against government, local and international interests. International terrorist groups exist and may conduct activities within the country and abroad. The country may be involved in cross border warfare.

Extreme Threat

Most countries in this category lack a political infrastructure with any democratic premise and have a high rate of corruption. The economy is unstable with a high rate of unemployment. There is a very high rate of violent and petty crime. A general state of lawlessness exists in most urban and remote areas. Overland travel through the country must be avoided. Many domestic terrorist or rebel groups exist and are frequently active; areas of the country may be controlled by rebel factions. International terrorist operations may be well organized and active. Anti- government actions and large demonstrations are common and violent. Cross border and internal warfare occur.