What is the definition of credible threat?

A credible threat is defined as a direct or veiled statement that is perceived as real and capable of being acted upon. This reflects the combination of intent and capability—suggesting that the individual making the threat has both the means and the motive to carry it out. In a security context, the seriousness of a threat hinges on how it is interpreted by the target or the authorities, with credible threats generally viewed as having a genuine potential for harm.

The other options do not convey the concept of a credible threat effectively. Thoughts lacking intent are not considered credible threats, as they suggest no real capacity to act. Similarly, threats regarded as jokes or fake do not fulfill the criteria for credibility because they are not taken seriously by the targeted individual or authorities and do not imply genuine intention to inflict harm. Lastly, mere suggestions without real implications also fall short of being classified as credible, as they do not convey an actionable threat that warrants concern.