Information terrorism and cyberterror : threats and responses

Abstract

Information terrorism and cyberterrorism gained global attention in the Twenty-first Century, due to the Information Technology (IT) revolutions that contributed to the changing nature of international terrorism. These changes increased academic and international interest as the newly emerging trends in international terrorism resulted in complex threats to the security of the international community. This study discusses the current trends and threats of information terrorism and cyberterrorism using a conceptual approach as well as case studies. To provide an integrated approach, this study contains a conceptual framework of international terrorism to determine the distinctions between traditional terrorism and contemporary terrorism. It examines the trends in international terrorism and the threats posed by information terrorism and cyberterrorism, with specific attention to Al-Qaeda’s activities and the US responses to such threats. The study analyses terrorist activities, particularly the 9/11 terror attacks in the US which became the trademark of Al-Qaeda and contributed to policy changes in the US and in the international community. The study further assesses the measures taken by the US specifically to respond to the threats of contemporary terrorism. The findings of the study postulate that the current trends in international terrorism include new forms of information terrorism and cyberterrorism, and have security implications especially for industrialised nations whose economies are supported by IT networks. The study concludes that these threats can only be countered through international cooperation to strengthen the security of the cyberspace environment. Copyright