Homeland Security Homework Help

Homeland Security

Homeland security denotes actions and measures used to safeguard a nation's citizens, borders, and infrastructure from security and safety threats like terrorists, natural calamities, infectious diseases, and illegal aliens. It involves various activities, including gathering and sharing intelligence, managing emergencies, enforcing laws, and providing border security.

The United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is a vital unit in the United States of America. This department makes efforts to provide and enhance public security.

The DHS performs different functions like border and immigration enforcement, emergency response, cybersecurity, conducting customs searches, and counter-terrorism to ensure everyone is free from security threats, both online and physical spaces.

The Office of the Secretary is responsible for managing DHS programs and efforts. Through this oversight, the DHS is able to mitigate the threat of explosive attacks against critical infrastructure, enhance security, use and administer immigration laws, cope with disasters, protect internet users, and work together with governments and individuals to foster national and economic security.

Components of Homeland Security

The DHS is made up of Operational and Support Components to address its core missions of homeland security. These bodies aid in protecting cyber systems, creating resilience when calamities take place, combating international terrorist threats, and deploying the National Guard to the border to secure borders and stop illegal migration. The following are some of the agencies that support DHS:

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) deals with disaster management programs. It serves citizens through hazard mitigation and disaster preparation, responses, and recovery. It improves the country's and people's capacity to cope with tragedies and hazards.

The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) is a key agency in managing risk to cyber and physical infrastructure. It takes measures to prevent life losses by understanding and mitigating safety threats and risky behaviors in different spaces.

The US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) provides oversights that facilitate lawful immigration to the country.

The United States Secret Service (USSS) is a body that safeguards economic integrity and different entities by protecting US financial infrastructure and payment systems.

The United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) protects the public from safety risks by enforcing criminal and civil laws that help regulate borders, govern customs and trade, and monitor immigration.

The Office of Health Security (OHS) is a DHS authority that fosters the Nation's health security by protecting the health and safety of staff and public members.

What is Homeland Security Homework Help?

Homeland Security homework help is a tutoring service provided to students pursuing Homeland Security and Emergency Management courses. It enables scholars to learn, extend their skills, and complete their assignments using high-quality study resources and solutions. Students often struggle to understand homeland security concepts or do homeland security assignments. Such people might seek general guidance or assistance with their academic tasks and research projects.

Whether you need assistance with homeland security tasks and research projects, you can use various approaches, tools, or platforms.

Government websites such as www.cisa.gov, https://www.tsa.gov/, and https://www.dhs.gov contain information about homework security. Homeland security agencies own and operate these websites.

Tutoring platforms like study.com and Chegg provide assistance with different subjects. They also publish study resources and solutions that help students understand homeland security concepts, conduct research, and complete their assignments. With these websites, you can access academic resources or materials and explore various topics, including law enforcement, border protection, immigration, maritime, international trade, infrastructure protection, and emergency management practices.

Peers and instructors can give you study help and foolproof tips for writing quality assignments. You can ask for clarifications from your classmates and lecturers if you have trouble answering specific questions or understanding homework instructions. Group study and discussion allow students to brainstorm, share ideas, and comprehend complex concepts.

Students can use forums, educational websites, social media sites, and academic databases to obtain resources and vital information about homeland security. University and local libraries allow you to access accurate and up-to-date scholarly journals, books, and magazines on DHS topics, emerging issues, trends, and current events. You can use articles on reputable websites to get content for your studies, practical activities, and learning. Social platforms and forums have tools that enable individuals to connect with homework helpers and online tutors.

Homework Security Assignment Sample:  The progress of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS)

The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is a crucial component of the Federal Government of the United States. Established in 2003, its primary objective is to enhance the security measures of the United States. The department is tasked with the responsibility of counteracting terrorism and managing emergency situations ("The Department's Five"). DHS consists of several directorates, including Border and Transportation Security and Emergency Preparedness and Response (Mitchell and Pate). The efficient distribution of roles allows the department to efficiently carry out its mandate.

Changes Observed at the Department of Homeland Security since its Establishment

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has modified its strategy for safeguarding national security by recognizing that local attacks pose significant risks to the stability of the United States. Johnson asserts that it was established in response to the terrorist strikes carried out by al Qaeda on American territory in September 2001 (2). At that time, the department and US security services presumed that terrorism was being imported into the country from abroad via air and land routes (3). This assumption resulted in focused government initiatives to protect the US borders from external dangers, resulting in the effective weakening of al Qaeda and its associated groups (3). Presently, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has allocated its resources to protect against acts of terrorism perpetrated by domestic violent extremists (Johnson 3). Based on this information, security agents are required to mitigate both domestic and international dangers to ensure the protection of residents. 

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has successfully enlisted several professionals to enhance the security of United States borders since its establishment. McAleenan asserts that it has adopted a comprehensive strategy for security, allowing it to identify potential threats before they enter US territory. In addition, through the augmentation of personnel recruitment throughout time, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has enhanced the dissemination of information regarding terrorist threats (McAleenan 2). Johnson stated that 16 years ago, the United States had a mere 8,600 agents specifically assigned to border control (5). Nevertheless, since the establishment of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the number of agents has increased to more than 17,000 (Johnson 5). Given these facts, ensuring sufficient personnel in security departments is crucial for maintaining national stability. 

In response to the rapid advancement of technology, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has recently initiated efforts to enhance its infrastructure to safeguard American citizens against cyberterrorism. According to Johnson, the ongoing increase in online dangers necessitates the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to protect the internet while also ensuring the unrestricted flow of online data (7). In 2009, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) established the National Cybersecurity and Communications Integration Center (NCCIC) with the purpose of mitigating cyberterrorism by facilitating the exchange of information and coordinating incident response (Johnson 8). Based on the provided data, cybersecurity enhances the overall security of a nation in the current era of digital technology. 

Relationships between the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and Law Enforcement and Intelligence Agencies

The Department of Homeland Security collaborates with law enforcement agencies at the local, territorial, and state levels to safeguard communities from any form of security risks. Since its beginning, it has achieved substantial advancements in enhancing its connections with them. The program provides law enforcement agencies with financial and manpower resources to improve safety throughout the United States ("Law Enforcement Partnerships"). The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) obtains vital information to enhance national security through this collaboration. The Office for State and Local Law Enforcement (OSLLE) facilitates the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) in collaborating with governmental and non-governmental entities to anticipate and safeguard against potential threats, such as natural calamities and acts of terrorism ("Law Enforcement Partnerships"). Hence, enhanced collaboration between the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and law enforcement agencies significantly improves the welfare of United States citizens. 

Additionally, the Department of Homeland Security collaborates with intelligence agencies to enhance and safeguard national security. Suciu states that the US Intelligence Community (IC) consists of 16 distinct federal intelligence entities that autonomously carry out surveillance operations to ensure security. The IC assists the DHS by focusing its efforts on gathering intelligence and combating terrorism. Following the September 2001 terror attacks in the US, the organization has implemented many structural modifications over time to provide the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) with efficient and cohesive assistance (Suciu). In light of these circumstances, it is imperative for both commercial and public entities providing intelligence services to adapt to address the evolving security requirements. 

Current Structure of the Department of Homeland Security

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is a vast governmental agency responsible for safeguarding the security and well-being of American residents. The organization comprises various operational and support agencies, including the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and the US Coast Guard (USCG) ("Organization"). The USCIS oversees the immigration system, whereas the USCG safeguards the maritime economy and environment. The Office of the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is responsible for supervising initiatives aimed at counteracting terrorism, controlling the borders of the United States, and protecting the digital realm. The head of staff acts as a mediator for conflicts within the department, while section managers oversee the coordination of service delivery to enhance safety. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is structured into various divisions to facilitate the allocation of responsibilities and enhance operational effectiveness.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is an additional entity responsible for safeguarding the United States against both domestic and foreign dangers. Its purpose is to ensure compliance with federal legislation and protect the nation's security. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is overseen by a director who is selected by the President of the United States and serves a ten-year tenure. Presently, Christopher Wray holds the position of the agency's leader ("Leadership & Structure"). The organization has multiple deputy directors that hold subordinate positions to the director. The executive assistant director serves as the chief of each of the FBI's eleven divisions, which encompass branches such as science and technology, intelligence, and human resources. Based on this knowledge, government entities adhere to hierarchical management structures to facilitate the implementation of their functions. 

Suggested Changes to Current Structure of the DHS

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has achieved substantial advancements in enhancing national security since its establishment. The department's effectiveness is limited by its institutional limitations, notwithstanding its accomplishments. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) ought to consolidate its intelligence operations and establish a chief intelligence officer to oversee them. The officer would synchronize policy ideas with components to enhance the efficacy of service delivery ("Reviewing the Department of Homeland" 4). Additionally, they would supervise security efforts to mitigate risks to the United States. Based on this information, consolidating related operations within a company enhances its ability to efficiently deliver services. 

One necessary structural modification at the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is consolidating all preparedness functions inside a single component. The planning, training, and exercising functions must be integrated to guarantee cohesive workforce response to emergencies. Given the department's extensive exposure to security risks, it is imperative that staff cohesion and the exchange of information are prioritized to successfully accomplish DHS's objectives (Nelson). The restructuring of the Emergency Preparedness and Response division would facilitate the development of a unified emergency response strategy by the DHS, applicable across all levels of administration. Furthermore, it would ensure that first-responders to calamities would have enough training and equipment. Hence, the close coordination of emergency response teams efficiently mitigates safety hazards. 

An essential reform that should take place within the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is the establishment of uniform employee assistance programs (EAPs). While every employee at the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has access to Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), different divisions within the department independently procure EAP services and determine the specific offerings ("5 Elements of the Department" 165). These words result in discrepancies and unequal allocation of services. Hence, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) must establish regulations mandating that all departments within the organization provide consistent Employee Assistance Program (EAP) services. This will guarantee that employees receive adequate support for their physical and mental well-being. Based on this knowledge, prioritizing the welfare of staff members would facilitate the attainment of objectives by national security agencies. 

Characteristics of Homeland Security that must be Addressed

While the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) ensures the security of American residents, its ability to obtain personal data gives rise to privacy apprehensions. According to Mitchell and Pate, the Privacy Act of 1974 seemingly grants the US government the authority to get individuals' confidential data, including banking and email records. Consequently, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) possesses the ability to merge personal data with information collected by security agencies like the FBI to detect and investigate terrorist actions (Mitchell and Pate). The government's skills in this regard give rise to concerns over privacy, as the personal data of American residents could potentially be revealed to cyberterrorists, resulting in financial losses and disruptions to their daily routines. Hence, it is imperative for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to tackle safety concerns pertaining to the utilization of private data.

Another aspect of homeland security that requires attention is its failure to uphold workers' rights. Mitchell and Pate assert that following the establishment of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), there was a divergence of opinions between US Democrats and Republicans on granting the president the authority to circumvent civil service regulations to appoint and advance employees inside the department. Furthermore, a conflict about the rights of workers to form labor unions has significantly impeded the operational efficiency of homeland security. Currently, the president possesses the power to dismiss personnel to safeguard national security (Mitchell and Pate). The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) should autonomously recruit and dismiss employees to enhance their employment stability and career advancement. Based on this knowledge, it is imperative to safeguard the rights of staff members from external influences to optimize productivity.

The DHS outlines strategies for safeguarding the United States, but the execution of these strategies is marked by ambiguity and a lack of clearly defined objectives for the agencies incorporated into its framework. Per Mitchell and Pate, certain agencies' efficacy has diminished inside the department. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has had its ability to provide aid to local organizations after natural disasters limited under the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) due to its obligations to oversee grants and provide training (Mitchell and Pate). To enhance effectiveness, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) should provide clear delineation of tasks and responsibilities for various government entities operating under its purview. 

Obstacles Hindering the DHS from Tackling Primary Concerns

The lack of coordination within different components of the DHS is a significant obstacle that hinders the resolution of efficiency and workers' rights issues. Roth states that the department's efforts to establish a centralized authority structure through projects like "One DHS" are difficult to maintain due to several unfilled leadership posts (3). Furthermore, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is lacking assertive leadership that would effectively convey the necessity of collaboration among its various components. The presence of leadership gaps in the department leads to redundancies and inefficiencies (Roth 3). Given these facts, it is imperative for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to engage in collaborative efforts with its staff members to establish an efficient and streamlined organization that prioritizes national security.

Cyber dangers pose a significant obstacle to the privacy of US residents. Although the Federal Government recognizes the importance of protecting individuals' privacy, it must access this data to gather vital information on prospective cybercrimes and prevent their occurrence, hence ensuring national security. Nelson suggests that the primary peril that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) must safeguard against is expected to originate from the realm of cyberspace. Cyber attacks are expected to grow increasingly advanced as information and communication technology (ICT) technologies continue to develop (Nelson). Hence, it is imperative for the government to utilize private data to establish a resilient system for thwarting cyberattacks.

The Role of Cyber Terrorism on Future Attacks Targeting the United States and its Allies

The potential impact of cyber terrorism on future strikes on the United States is considerable. Weimann defines cyber terrorism as illicit acts targeting governments and individuals with the intention of compelling them to comply with social and political goals (4). It will play a significant role in future assaults due to its cost-effectiveness compared to previous means of carrying out acts of terrorism (4). Cyber terrorists employ the method of conducting attacks in a convenient and remote manner by generating and transmitting computer viruses through telephone lines, wireless connections, and cables (6). Cyber terrorism will enable anonymous individuals to direct future attacks against the US and its allies (6). Cyber terrorists employ internet technology to access websites through the use of false accounts and aliases, making it challenging for US security officials to ascertain their true identities (Weimann 6). Given these circumstances, cyberterrorism significantly hinders civic and social activity.

The proliferation of cyber terrorism will escalate the frequency and severity of assaults against the United States and its allied nations by exploiting weaknesses in critical institutions. Weimann argues that certain crucial economic and security sectors in the US are inadequately protected, rendering them susceptible to debilitating attacks (7). On an annual basis, a typical major utility company in the United States encounters around one million instances of unauthorized access to its computer systems (7). As a result of deregulation and a strong emphasis on profitability, the majority of companies in the United States have shifted their operations on the internet, thereby heightening their vulnerability to cyber threats (7). The energy sector and other companies are susceptible to cyber disturbances (Weimann 7). Hence, it is imperative for crucial institutions in the United States and worldwide to allocate resources towards implementing robust security systems to mitigate potential risks to safety. 

The Most Significant Cyber Threat to The United States

The unauthorized access and theft of personal information and organizational data provide the most significant cyber threat to the United States presently. Dan Swinhoe's recent news piece, available at https://www.csoonline.com/article/2130877/the-biggest-data-breaches-of-the-21st-century.html, provides a comprehensive account of the largest data breaches that have occurred in the 21st century. In 2013, Adobe acknowledged that hackers had illicitly obtained around 3 million encrypted payment card records and login data for an unspecified number of client accounts (Swinhoe). As a result of the cyber attack, Adobe was required to make an undisclosed monetary payment to resolve client claims for violating the Customer Records Act (Swinhoe). Based on this information, hacking poses a substantial threat since it leads to the erosion of privacy and financial losses for both American individuals and institutions. 

In summary, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) holds significant significance within the United States Federal Government. Established in 2003, its primary objective was to enhance the security measures of the United States. It aids in the prevention of terrorism and enhances the ability to respond to calamities. From the beginning, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has enlisted several professionals to enhance the security of the United States at its borders. Furthermore, technological progress has facilitated the enhancement of its infrastructure to safeguard American civilians against cyberterrorism. The DHS outlines strategies for safeguarding the United States, but the execution of these strategies is marked by ambiguity and a dearth of explicit objectives for the agencies incorporated within its framework. Hence, it is imperative to establish clear delineations of duties and responsibilities for the many entities operating inside it to ensure effectiveness. 

Resources

5 Elements of The Department of Homeland Security Workforce Readiness and Resilience Strategic Plan. (n.d). 159-196.

Johnson, Jeh C. “U.S. Department of Homeland Security: Record of Progress and Vision for the Future.” 5 Jan. 2017, 1–13.

Law Enforcement Partnerships. 7 September, 2018, https://www.dhs.gov/topic/law-enforcement-partnerships   

Leadership & Structure. (n.d). https://www.fbi.gov/about/leadership-and-structure   

McAleenan, Kevin. “Department of Homeland Security: Strategic Framework for Countering Terrorism and Targeted Violence.” Sept. 2019, 1-40.

Mitchell, Jennifer, and Jason Pate. “The Department of Homeland Security: Goals and Challenges.” Nuclear Threat Initiative - Ten Years of Building a Safer World, 1 Apr. 2003, www.nti.org/analysis/articles/homeland-security-goals-challenges/  

Nelson, Rick. “Homeland Security at a Crossroads: Evolving DHS to Meet the Next Generation of Threats.” Center for Strategic and International Studies, 1 Feb. 2013, www.csis.org/analysis/homeland-security-crossroads-evolving-dhs-meet-next-generation-threats  

Organization. 23 September, 2019, https://www.dhs.gov/organization  

Reviewing The Department of Homeland Security’s Intelligence Enterprise: House Homeland Security Committee Majority Staff Report. December, 2016, 1-76.

Roth, John. “Major Management and Performance Challenges Facing the Department of Homeland Security.” Office of Inspector General, Nov. 2013, 1-11.