What is one of the first steps a security officer should take when a suspicious activity is noticed?

When a security officer notices suspicious activity, reporting the activity to the appropriate authority, if safe to do so, is a crucial first step. This action ensures that professionals trained to handle such situations can respond effectively and appropriately without unnecessarily escalating the situation. Reporting allows for a higher authority or law enforcement to assess the risk and take necessary actions, all while ensuring the safety of both the officer and the public.

Confronting individuals involved in suspicious behavior without proper authority can lead to dangerous situations, and ignoring the activity could allow it to escalate into a serious incident. Creating a public disturbance could instigate panic or conflicts, complicating the situation further. The focus should always be on ensuring safety and following protocols, which is why reporting is the most responsible and effective course of action.