What do preparation indicators reflect?

Preparation indicators are signs that suggest an attack may occur in the near term. These indicators typically involve observable behaviors or actions by individuals or groups that indicate they are making plans or taking steps that align with the potential for an attack. For example, preparation indicators may include the gathering of materials, changes in routine, or other preparations that are purposefully aligned with creating an opportunity for an attack.

The other options present different types of signals that may not specifically relate to imminent planning or preparation for a violent action. While signals of imminent violent action indicate that an attack is very close to happening, they do not reflect the preparatory phase. Increased social media activity and community protests can indeed happen for a variety of reasons, but they do not specifically denote that preparations for an attack are underway. These can be broader societal actions that may not necessarily correlate with an imminent threat.