Threats start off body searches (5)

I believe the answer is:

risks

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'threats' is the definition.
The definition and answer can be both states of affairs as well as being plural nouns.
Perhaps you can see a link between them that I can't see?

I cannot understand how the rest of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for risks that I've seen before include "Puts in jeopardy" , "Hazards, dangers" , "Perils" , "Exposes to danger" , "Sources of dangers" .)

I've seen this clue in The Guardian.

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