Online Targeting Response Resources

If you feel that you have been targeted and/or have received a threat to your personal safety through emails, phone calls, online posts, social media or other means, these are the recommended steps to take:

1. Report the situation.
   1. First, do you feel that you or those close to you are subject to immediate physical danger, or has there been mention/threat of physical violence? If so, please call 911 immediately for assistance.
   2. Report the situation through the Report It web page.
      1. Depending on the nature of the threat, you may choose the Threat Management Reporting Form; Discrimination, Harrassment and Sexual Harassment Form; or another option available on the page.
   3. Inform your department chair and/or supervisor to ensure their awareness.
2. Document the communications you've received. Document emails, voicemails, text messages, social media posts, etc. that demonstrate the content targeted at you.
3. Leverage available university support resources. The Employee Assistance Program, in addition to other university resources, are available for you.

If a faculty or staff member contacts you indicating they have been targeted and/or have received a threat to their personal safety through emails, phone calls, online posts, social media or other means, these are the recommended steps to take:

• Focus on individual steps. Ensure that faculty/staff member has taken the steps outlined under the "Information for Faculty and Staff" section above.
• Consider whether you have any required reporting obligations. Depending on the nature of the concern brought to you, you may be required to report it under policies such as PPM 3010, PPM 3015, or PPM 3130. Should you have any questions about your reporting requirements, contact Civil Rights and Title IX and/or the Office of Risk and Compliance.
• Ensure full understanding of relevant policies. Take special care to ensure the faculty/staff member is aware of relevant policies and guidance, including the university's social media policy and free expression resources.
• Keep an open line of communication. Demonstrate empathy and leadership by assuring the faculty/staff member they are a supported member of our university community and that there are resources available to them.
  • If applicable, facilitate a discussion around the institution's support for academic freedom and the inherent limitations of academic freedom to ensure full understanding.
• Facilitate additional support as needed. Ensure the faculty/staff member has the support they need.
  • Recommend the Employee Assistance Program and/or other relevant resources.
  • Work with the faculty/staff member to find an appropriate level of response for their needs and the situation. For example, you may choose to temporarily remove the staff member's email address from your website and/or temporarily move their office space if the situation warrants such responses.