Dear staff and students,
On Monday at 9:00 a.m., Charles University received a mass e-mail demanding a ransom. After receiving the e-mail, we informed the Police of the Czech Republic, who are investigating the matter, are in contact with us and will give us their recommendations according to the situation. Within the University, the situation is being handled by the Security Department of the Rector‘s Office of Charles University, which is discussing the procedure with the Central Crisis Staff of Charles University. After a comprehensive assessment of the severity of the threat, we recommend that normal operations, including teaching, continue.
At the same time, for precautionary reasons, we would like to remind you:
1. Be sensitive to your surroundings and let us know if something dangerous or if you perceive someone‘s behaviour as suspicious.
a. Always contact a school staff member you trust. You can also contact the CU Security Department helpline on +420 771 275 564.
b. If there is a physical incident or other serious danger, call the police directly on 112.
2. In the event of a serious physical incident (including a shooting):
a. If you can, RUN!
b. If you cannot run, HIDE!
c. If you can‘t hide, FIGHT!
d. When you are safe, call 112.
3. If you find an object suspected to be an IED:
a. Do not touch the object, do not open it under any circumstances.
b. Move to a safe distance. If you can see the object, you are not safe.
c. Notify the police at 112 and the CU Security Department at +420 771 275 564.
d. If possible, strongly urge others around you to stay away from the object.
4. If you feel anxious at school or need psychological counselling, do not hesitate to contact one of
the crisis and intervention psychological helplines. An overview of the counselling centres can be
found here
We continue to monitor the current situation and coordinate with the Police of the Czech Republic.
We will keep you informed of further developments.
Important contacts:
Police: 112
Security Department of the RUK: + 420 771 275 564 (from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on weekdays)
A signpost to psychological and spiritual support can be found here:
