The US State Department on Monday issued a worldwide alert to its citizens abroad, citing security risks. This comes days after a brutal attack in Moscow’s concert hall for which ISIS took complete responsibility. More than 130 people died and more than 180 people were injured in the attack in Russia’s capital city.

"Due to increased tensions in various locations around the world, the potential for terrorist attacks, demonstrations or violent actions against U.S. citizens and interests, the Department of State advises U.S. citizens overseas to exercise increased caution," the State Department said in a notice.

The US State Department further added that Americans should : a) Stay alert in locations frequented by tourists, b) Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive information and alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency overseas, and c) Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter.

The US Embassy in France too issued an alert. "The State Department advises U.S. citizens overseas to exercise increased caution because of increased tensions around the world and the potential for terrorist attacks, demonstrations, or violent actions against U.S. citizens and interests," the notice on the department's website read.

On Sunday, France increased its security alert to the highest level, as announced by the French Prime Minister Gabriel Attal through a post on the microblogging site X (formerly Twitter). The post said that authorities were "taking into account the Islamic State's claim of responsibility for the (Moscow) attack and the threats weighing on our country."

This announcement was made after an emergency security meeting by the French President Emmanuel Macron. The rise in security alert comes in the background of an already highly alert France which hosts the Paris Olympics and Paralympics this year.

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