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FBI: Officials taking report about ISIS threat seriously at Philips Arena

ATLANTA — FBI officials have confirmed to Channel 2 Action News that they are taking seriously a report about an ISIS threat at a WWE Survivor Series event in Atlanta on Sunday.

The FBI released the following statement to Channel 2 Action News:

"The FBI is aware of reports of an alleged threat that includes an Atlanta, Georgia venue and event.  While we take all threats seriously, we do not have specific or credible information of an attack at this time.  We have, however, made the proper notifications as we continue to work closely with our law enforcement and private sector partners to keep our community safe."

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The hacker group Anonymous said Saturday that it had uncovered information about Islamic State group attacks in Paris as well as locations in the U.S.

According to an article in the International Business Times:

"Anonymous also said the Islamic State group is planning an assault at the WWE Survivor Series event scheduled to take place in the Philips Arena in Atlanta Sunday at 7.30 p.m. EST, as well as attacks at multiple events in Paris. "

The WWE, Atlanta Hawks and Phillips Arena released this joint statement in response to the terror threats:

"Federal, state and local law enforcement authorities have confirmed there is no specific or credible information involving a threat against tomorrow's WWE Survivor Series at Philips Arena. However, WWE and Philips Arena have coordinated with the appropriate agencies and law enforcement, and significantly increased security measures to ensure the safety of all those in attendance, which is our highest priority.

Doors will open at 6 p.m. to help fans avoid any delays in entering the arena due to the additional precautionary security procedures put in place.  Fans are encouraged to take public transportation (MARTA) to the event and are advised that bags will not be permitted in the arena."

Out of an abundance of caution, Alanta Mayor Kasim Reed said in a statement Sunday that he has directed the Joint Operations Center to be opened because of the threat.

"Although the FBI has not found any credible threats relating to any events in the city, the Atlanta Police Department (APD) is actively monitoring the situation and is coordinating closely with our federal and state partners.

"Over the past week, the City of Atlanta has increased security for all operations, including at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, the Atlanta Streetcar and for major public events. As always, APD stands ready to act in the case of an emergency.

"There are several events in our city tonight, including the WWE Survivor Series, the Atlanta Falcons game, and the Macy's Great Tree Lighting. If you see or hear something suspicious, please call 911 immediately.

"In this holiday season and at all times, I encourage our residents and visitors to enjoy our city and not let fear guide you. Public safety remains my number one priority, and I am confident in our law enforcement agencies' ability to keep us safe."

Channel 2's Mark Winne spoke with the director of the Georgia Emergency Management Agency, Jim Butterworth, who said his agency is working closely with the FBI, the Georgia Information Sharing and Analysis Center and others in evaluating the threat on a Sunday WWE event in Atlanta reported by the group Anonymous.

The Georgia World Congress Center Authority released the following statement:

"In response to recent world events, fans may notice enhanced security, including increased law enforcement presence around the GWCCA campus on Sunday. While numerous processes are in place for fan safety we cannot discuss the specifics."

WWE released the following statement to Channel 2 Action News Saturday:

"WWE Survivor Series is currently scheduled as planned while we investigate the matter with federal, state and local authorities."

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Channel 2's Tyisha Fernandes spoke with Frank Mustari who traveled from Chicago to Atlanta to attend the wrestling event.

"There's threats every day, but when you're here in the middle of it, it makes you feel a little uneasy," Mustari said.

Mustari says he is thrilled to have a seat for the event marking the Undertaker's 25th Anniversary at WWE.

 Refresh this page for immediate updates from WSBTV.com and watch Channel 2 Action News for live coverage of this developing story.