The Department of Homeland Security is responsible for keeping the border safe from potential threats. Homeland Security works closely with the the U.S. Customs Border Protection to enforce strict rules and regulations when it comes to border activity. Illegal immigration in the 1920’s forced congress to establish the department, but after the September 11th terrorist attacks, the focus of the department has shifted to stopping terrorist activities at the border.

Who They Are

The mission of Homeland Security is to provide a safer, more secure America. As stated above, their focus is primarily on stopping terrorist activity, but there are other potential threats they focus on as well. When dealing with Homeland Security and customs,  the department handles security for U.S. air, land, and sea. They also assist in preventing unlawful trade and travel by criminals. Another aspect Homeland Security deals with, which might be surprising, is Cyber Security. In today’s society, cyber attacks are all too common. Homeland Security combats cyber attacks by searching for threats and breakdowns in the cyber world, issuing warnings, and letting the proper officials know of attacks on computer networks and cyber systems.

What They Do

Daily tasks can differ from day to day with Homeland Security, but one activity the department always does is watch. They watch to identify potential threats and they watch for the optimal time to arrest or capture a criminal. This is all done with proper planning and execution. There are multiple avenues in which illegal activity can be found and caught. Surveillance plays a vital role in eliminating criminal activity. There are also other protocols used such as traffic checks, transportation checks and even city patrolling. Watching activities and behaviors to prevent potential threats to the United States are part of the daily duties of Homeland Security.

Homeland Security & Customs

Customs brokers work closely with Homeland Security and U.S. Customs Border Protection. One way this partnership works is through the Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism. C-TPAT is a volunteer government-business initiative to build cooperative relationships that strengthen and improve overall international supply chain and U.S. border security. When members of the trade community sign up for participation in C-TPAT, they enjoy a variety of benefits that make the customs clearance process more effective. A certification allows importers to take advantage of faster import processing and reduces customs inspections. These benefits can be awarded to companies that are C-TPAT certified because the CBP knows that the company has put in the time and effort to make border security a top priority.

Here at AFC International, we are C-TPAT certified and make safety and security a top priority. We work with most of the 60 Federal Agencies that monitor the international community, including Homeland Security, maximizing our ability to import your goods fast and safe.

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