Updated ‘Worldwide Caution’ Security Alert

Source: https://grs-blog.global.utexas.edu/2025/06/23/updated-worldwide-caution-security-alert/ Parent: https://grs-blog.global.utexas.edu/

The U.S. Department of State issued an updated “Worldwide Caution” security alert on June 23, 2025, due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and increased potential for demonstrations against U.S. citizens and interests. The update advises travelers to exercise increased caution.

As always, the top priority of the Texas Global Risk and Safety team is to support students and employees traveling abroad. The following resources are available to assist and empower UT Austin international travelers to make informed decisions and prepare for any potential emergencies they might encounter abroad:

• On Call International provides medical, travel, and safety assistance, including evacuation services, to all UT Austin travelers. Log into the On Call Plan Information Portal with theUT Group ID 100143CPPD21 to gain access to:
• Individual pre-departure consultation with a security expert if you have any safety concerns. Click on “PreTrip Itinerary Review” to request an appointment.
• Global Risk Intelligence for country-specific health, safety, and cultural information.
• OnSolve Risk Intelligence app, which allows travelers to receive critical incident alerts for their destination

• 24/7 Tele-Counseling

• Texas Global maintains a curated list of resources prepared specifically for UT Austin travelers, which includes these essential safety planning documents:

• Emergency Action Plan
• UT Austin Emergency Contact List
• International Emergency Card

For all travelers, whether you are planning to travel or have already departed, we strongly recommend that you:

• Enroll in the U.S. Department of State’s free Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive critical information and alerts from the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate, and to facilitate contact with you during crisis situations.
• Be familiar with U.S. Department of State Resources (including country-specific Travel Advisories) including access to the Directory of Embassies and Consulates and American Citizen Services and Crisis Management. Follow the Department of State on social media (Facebook, Instagram, X).
• Review the On Call International emergency assistance and overseas insurance Plan ID for coverage details. Scan the On Call brochure’s QR code to save the coverage information and On Call contact details to your phone.
• Download the OnSolve Risk Intelligence app (operated through On Call International) and ensure your location services are operational so UT Austin can ascertain your whereabouts and provide emergency support should incidents arise in your immediate vicinity. (All registered travelers should have received an invitation to do so shortly before departure.)
• Save your host country’s emergency number(s) in your phone.

We also recommend following these security guidelines:

• Avoid all protests, rallies, and demonstrations. These have the potential to escalate quickly into violence, and even onlookers risk harm or possible arrest.
• Avoid or minimize time (if unavoidable) near flashpoint areas such as government buildings and religious sites and U.S.-owned businesses.
• Monitor local media and adhere to all recommendations from local authorities.
• Avoid wearing or carrying anything that points to religious or national identity.
• Ensure that cell phones are charged at all times.
• Keep your family informed of your travel plans.

While abroad, if you need medical, security, or travel assistance, regardless of the nature or severity of the situation, contact On Call International 24-hour support:

• Call from anywhere in the world: +1 978-651-9722
• Call toll-free from the U.S. or Canada: 1-833-328-1091
• Email: mail@oncallinternational.com
• Text-only number: 603-945-0103
• Live chat: https://www.oncallinternational.com/chat/direct

Your safe and successful international travel, whether it be for education abroad, faculty research, or to further the University’s goals, is important to Texas Global. Please do not hesitate to contact the Global Risk and Safety team at grs@austin.utexas.edu if you have any questions or concerns.