The dilemma of Internet and Network security is affected by political implications, this especially holds true in this present day. Cyber terrorism isn’t an altogether new concept but it took up a greater percentage of the media with the advent of 911 and the twin towers attack on America. Cyber terrorists were around in the 1970’s when the red brigade destroyed communications processors in Italy. (Simons)[1]
Cyber terrorism involves the use of advanced technology that not many hackers possess. We can see that one aspect that motivates one type of hacker is political in nature from this. In studying the sociological and psychological influences that motivate hackers the concept of politics must come into play. The political hacker is always a black hat because this type hacker breaks the law to promote political ideas and beliefs. This type hacker will use the Internet for Propaganda/Publicity, Information Dissemination, and fundraising.
The news media has many examples of Cyber terrorism this year. The evolution of the Internet has not only allowed terrorist to communicate but has been made a training ground for terrorists. Emily Kumler in her article Terrorists rely on tech tools published by Computerworld describes terrorist websites increasing by 571% in the past seven years. She also describes an online training camp by Al-Qaeda called Al Battar, or The Sword. She goes on to describe how edition number 9 of this publication by the Al-Qaeda is devoted to kidnapping potential targets employing negotiating tactics, and directions on to videotape the beheading of a victim and post it on the Internet. (Kumler)[2]
Although small in number compared to the super military forces of nations like the United States of America these terrorist have the capability to induce fear. The Internet seems to have given them the potential to become the mouse feared by the proverbial elephant.
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