Vigipirate is France's national security alert system. Created in 1978 through interministerial sessions and falling within the responsibilities of the prime minister, it has since been updated three times: in 1995 (following a terror bombing campaign), 2000 and 2004.

Details

Until 2014 the system defined four levels of threats represented by five colors: white, yellow, orange, red, scarlet. The levels called for specific security measures, including increased police or police/military mixed patrols in subways, train stations and other vulnerable locations. In February 2014 the levels were simplified to 'vigilance' (or surveillance) and 'attack alert'. In December 2016, they were reorganized in three levels: 'vigilance', 'heightened security/risk of attack' and 'attack emergency'. The name "Vigipirate" is an acronym of ("surveillance and protection of facilities against the risk of terrorist bombing attacks")

Levels of alert (to 2014)

Levels of alert (2014-2016)

Levels of alert (from 2016)

History of alert levels