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Featured

Use of the Internet for Terrorist Purposes: Propaganda, Instruction and Planning

Event Type

Expert Briefing

Format

Online

Year

2020

Speakers

Mohamed Ahmed, Executive Director, Average Mohamed


Moderator

Cecilia Polizzi, Founding President/CEO, Next Wave

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Description

The use of the Internet for terrorism-related purposes continues to evolve, serving as a powerful tool for propaganda, instruction, and planning. Terrorist groups have utilized Internet-based platforms to promote violence and extremist rhetoric, ensuring a steady flow of sympathizers and supporters. This shift has been accompanied by changes in the structure of terrorist organizations, with many adopting a "leaderless resistance" model, where attacks are incited independently of centralized command or operational planning. Such propaganda often targets marginalized and vulnerable groups, including minors, who represent a significant portion of Internet users. The rise of technological barriers adds complexity to efforts by law enforcement and intelligence agencies to track terrorism-related activity. The event underscored the necessity of multi-faceted strategies that incorporate education, community engagement, and international cooperation to address the complexities of Internet-facilitated terrorism and its far-reaching consequences.

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