
How U.S. Counterterrorism Works
See how NCTC, FBI, DHS, CIA, NSA and the military divide counterterrorism duties, and how they coordinate under the laws that govern them.
Public safety, in the national security sense, is the work of protecting the country and its people from attacks, disasters, and threats that cross borders. It brings together homeland security, emergency response, border control, and the defense of vital systems such as power grids and computer networks. Federal, state, and local agencies share the work, and the military supports it in limited ways.
An independent team explaining how government works

See how NCTC, FBI, DHS, CIA, NSA and the military divide counterterrorism duties, and how they coordinate under the laws that govern them.

In the popular imagination, the internet is a "cloud"—an ethereal, wireless network that transmits data through the air. This metaphor masks the physical reality of the…

In early January 2026, the FBI announced it had stopped an ISIS-inspired attack plot targeting a high school in central Indiana. The case was one of…

Last updated. Our resources are updated regularly but please keep in mind that links, programs, policies, and contact information do change. When a major disaster strikes,…
Terrorism Threats covers the groups and dangers behind attacks, and Counterterrorism Operations covers the efforts to stop them. Chemical Biological Radiological Nuclear Threats covers weapons and materials meant to cause mass harm.
Border Security covers the control of who and what enters the country, and Aviation Security covers the protection of air travel.
Critical Infrastructure Protection covers the defense of power, water, transportation, and other vital services. Cybersecurity and Homeland Security covers protection against attacks on computer networks.
Emergency Preparedness covers planning before a crisis, and Emergency Management covers the government's response and recovery. Incident Management covers how agencies organize and command a response.
After applying for federal disaster assistance, you will receive a determination letter from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Receiving this letter can be…
When a disaster strikes, the loss of a vehicle can be devastating, cutting off access to work, school, medical care, and essential supplies. In…
When a major disaster strikes, families face overwhelming challenges. Beyond the immediate needs for safety and shelter, the disruption to daily life creates immense…
When a major disaster strikes, the President of the United States can issue a Major Disaster Declaration, unlocking federal aid to support affected communities.…
Losing your home, your belongings, and your peace of mind in a disaster is a devastating experience. The added burden of replacing essential documents,…
After a disaster, your focus is on safety, shelter, and recovery. The last thing you should worry about is whether getting the help you…
When you're navigating the aftermath of a disaster, the last thing you need is confusion about your taxes. Financial assistance from the Federal Emergency…
When a major disaster strikes—a hurricane, wildfire, flood, or tornado—the path to recovery can seem overwhelming. Homes may be damaged or destroyed, essential documents…
When a disaster strikes, applying for federal aid through the Federal Emergency Management Agency is a critical step for many households on the road…
When a presidentially declared disaster strikes, the immediate aftermath is a time of confusion, fear, and urgent need. For immigrant families, particularly those with…