Visitors to Christmas markets across Austria can expect to see more police officers this Advent, including uniformed patrols and plain-clothes officers.
However, the authorities have made it clear that there are, at this stage, no specific indications of any threat to the Christmas markets or Advent events in Austria.
According to an announcement from the Interior Ministry, security will be stepped up at Christmas markets, Advent events and other similar public spaces across the country.
What security measures will the visitors be able to observe?
Police officers in uniform will conduct more visible foot patrols around Christmas markets and other busy locations.
Plain-clothes state-security officers will also be deployed, alongside specially equipped police units.
Security arrangements will vary between markets, depending on their location and the risks identified by police.
"No Christmas market is the same," said Franz Ruf, Director General for Public Security in Austria. Ruf said officers would adapt their approach to local conditions and be ready to respond quickly to potential threats.
Austria's State Security and Intelligence Directorate (DSN) will continue to monitor national and international security developments and work with provincial police directorates and international partners.
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Will there be drones at the Christmas markets?
Yes, police drones will also be part of this year's security, enabling officers to monitor large crowds from above.
The ministry said the drones would help officers spot potential hazards earlier and improve coordination between the emergency services and officers on the ground.
Police are also preparing for the risks posed by unauthorised drones.
Under changes to Austria's aviation legislation, regional police directorates will be able to establish temporary drone no-fly zones where a security assessment warrants it.
The specialist police unit Cobra may also be called in if required, with their technical capability being used to deal with unauthorised or potentially dangerous drone activity.
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Is there a specific threat to the Christmas markets?
The Interior Ministry said there were no concrete indications of a threat to Christmas markets or Advent events in Austria.
The extra police are part of the preventative security plan, not a reaction to a specific threat to a market.
READ ALSO: Vienna to deploy 500 security staff for Eurovision in May
What should visitors do to stay safe?
Austria's Federal Criminal Police Office has also warned Christmas market visitors about pickpocketing and distraction theft.
Crowds in marketplaces and busy shopping streets are an easy target for thieves, who may deliberately bump into you, spill your drink, or start a conversation to distract you while they steal your valuables.
Police advise keeping your wallet and phone close to your body, ideally in a secure pocket, and carrying your bag or backpack closed and in front of you in crowded areas.
Visitors should also take only as much cash as they need.
If anything is stolen, report it to the police straight away and block any stolen bank cards, credit cards, or SIM cards.
If you notice anything suspicious, report it to police officers at the market.
Call 133 if you're in immediate danger or urgently need police assistance. You can also call the European emergency number 112.
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