FBI Director Kash Patel outlined several security concerns related to the upcoming World Cup, including cyber threats, drone usage, and the risk of lone-wolf attacks. The tournament, expected to attract three million visitors across North America, will feature 104 matches, with 78 hosted in the U.S. Security measures are being intensified in 11 U.S. cities to ensure safety during the event.
Patel emphasized the importance of community engagement in identifying potential threats, stating that traditional police work involves communicating with local communities about any suspicious activities. The FBI has established a special operations center to centralize data on potential threats, particularly from cyber actors who may attempt to hack infrastructure.
In addition to nation-state threats from countries like China and Russia, Patel noted that lone-wolf attacks pose significant risks. The FBI is also focusing on online radicalization that could lead to domestic violence. Drones are another concern, as they can be operated from a distance and pose a threat to public safety. The FBI has developed technology to disable problematic drones and has shared this with local law enforcement.
Patel highlighted a recent rise in antisemitic violence, referencing an attack at a Michigan synagogue. He mentioned that since the Trump administration began, the FBI has arrested over 45,000 violent offenders and successfully tracked down several high-profile fugitives.