On the same day the cops are crawling all over London (and Oxford, actually), the US State Department is warning expats like me “to maintain a high level of vigilance, take appropriate steps to increase their security awareness, and exercise caution in public places or while using public transportation. U.S. citizens are also advised to fully cooperate with British authorities if and as needed while they continue their investigations.”

And don’t forget that eternal vigilance is the price of what passes for liberty nowadays:

U.S. citizens are reminded of the potential for further terrorist actions against U.S. citizens abroad. Terrorists do not distinguish between official and civilian targets. Terrorist actions may include bombings, hijackings, hostage taking, kidnappings and assassinations. Increased security at official U.S. facilities may lead terrorists and their sympathizers to seek softer targets such as public transportation, residential areas and apartment complexes, and public areas where people congregate including restaurants, hotels, clubs, and shopping areas. U.S. citizens are advised to immediately report any unusual or suspicious activity in the United Kingdom to the police or the U.S. Embassy in London.

Yes, it’s still “the war on terror”, not just the “global struggle against violent extremism“!