Anonymous threat reporting format
Does your organization have a system in place for anonymous reporting? Anonymous reporting for active shooter threats is critical for several reasons:
Encourages More Tips: Many individuals—especially students or employees—may hesitate to report suspicious behavior out of fear of retaliation, social stigma, or being wrong. An anonymous option removes this barrier and increases the likelihood that concerning behavior will be reported early.
Early Intervention: Anonymous tips can provide the first warning signs of someone planning violence. Early information gives authorities or administrators the chance to intervene before a tragedy occurs.
Protects the Reporter: Maintaining anonymity builds trust in the reporting system. It allows individuals to come forward without risking their safety, job, or social relationships.
Reduces False Assumptions: People are more likely to report subtle or concerning behavior, even if it doesn’t seem serious at first. These small details can help form a bigger picture when combined with other reports.
Fosters a Culture of Safety: When organizations promote anonymous reporting, they send a clear message: “See something, say something”—without fear. This helps create a proactive, watchful community focused on collective safety.
Below is a template to help get your reporting system started.
This format is straightforward to facilitate easy and anonymous reporting.
1. Incident Type:
o Physical violence
o Verbal threats
o Intimidation
o Harassment
o Suspicious behavior
o Other (please specify)
2. Date and Time of Incident: [Date ] [Time ]
3. Location of Incident:
4. Method of Threat Delivery: (Please check all that apply)
o Phone Call
o In Person
o Email
o Social Media Post (Specify platform if possible)
o Text Message
o Written Message (Specify location found if applicable)
o Other (Describe)
5. Target of Threat: (Please check all that apply)
o Specific Individual(s) (Name if known)
o Group/Class
o Entire Organization
o Organized Event
o Other (Describe)
6. Description of Incident: Please provide as much detail as possible without identifying yourself. Direct quotes, screenshots, ect.
7. Persons Involved (do not use names):
o Number of individuals involved: [Number input]
o Role(s) of individuals (e.g., employee, manager, visitor):
8. Potential Witnesses (do not use names): If yes: Approximate number of witnesses: [Number input]
9. Any weapons involved or mentioned?
o Yes If yes: Type of weapon (if known):
o No
10. Has this type of incident occurred before?
o Yes
o No
o Unsure
11. Level of Concern:
o High
o Medium
o Low
12. Additional Information: Include any other relevant details that may help in addressing the situation.
13. Follow-up Contact (optional): If you're willing to be contacted for more information, please provide a method of contact that doesn't identify you (e.g., a temporary email address).
o Yes
o No
Security and Privacy Notice
Your privacy is our top priority. This report will remain anonymous unless you choose to provide your contact information. All reports are confidential and will only be used to investigate and prevent workplace violence.
Submission Confirmation:
o Checkbox: I confirm that this report is made in good faith and does not intentionally include false information.
Please remember: All threats should be taken seriously. Reporting suspicious activity or threats promptly is crucial to ensuring the safety and well-being of our community. Thank you.