How do we define this controversial term?
Cyberterrorism is a relatively new thing, and by no means is it clearly defined or easy to understand. Some authors use a very narrow definition, such as "Attacks against information systems by known terrorist organizations for the sole purpose of creating disruption and panic". If you were to consider this the only possible way to define cyberterrorism, it may be difficult to find even a single instance of cyberterrorism in recent time.
Another possible way of looking at this term is as follows, defined by Mark Pollitt, of the FBI.
“Cyberterrorism is the premeditated, politically motivated attack against information, computer systems, computer programs, and data which result in violence against non combatant targets by subnational groups or clandestine agents".
One of the reasons it may be difficult to define this controversial term is because it is necessary to differentiate cyberterrorism from the other kinds of computer abuse such as computer crime, economic espionage, and information warfare. Cyberterrorism is composed of two root words, cyber and terrorism. First, it is important to note that no single definition of the term "terrorism" has gained universal acceptance, just as no single definition for cyberterrorism has been totally accepted. Also, calling any computer attack an act of cyber terror is problematic since it is difficult to know the intent, identity, or motivations of the attacker with any real certainty at the time of the attacks.
How do you define cyberterrorism? Do you feel threatened by it? Does it even exist?
Sources:
http://www.techandlaw.net/areas-of-interest/cyberwar-and-cyberterrorism
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Terrorism
I agree with both definitions given in the post. Cyberterrorism, with no doubt, does exist and in fact has become bigger of a threat. A frightening vision I've thought of is when terrorists integrate cyberterrorism into a large scale operation to facilitate their physical attacks.
ReplyDeleteTriet Pham
I do agree it is premeditated and is a motivated attacked against computer programs and information systems, even personal data online. It does not always lead to violence but will almost always lead to invasion of privacy or fraud. My perception of cyberterrorism is a programmer hacking into computer systems to steal/change/destroy information such as stealing credit card information online or destroy computers by implementing viruses.
ReplyDeleteHere is a good example of cyberterrorism that occurred to our own nation's biggest banks: U.S BANKS ARE UNDER CYBER ATTACK BY TERRORISTS: http://www.securityinfowatch.com/blog/10796084/cyber-terror-rages-in-the-banking-sector
Thank goodness, we are prepared!
I definitely think that cyberterrorism exists and that is poses an important threat to many governments in today's world. Just like the definition of terrorism, which has more than 200 definitions, I think that the definition of it may change according to where and to who it is being done. I find this article very interesting which includes a section to the definitions of the word "terrorism".
ReplyDeletehttp://www.sagepub.com/upm-data/51172_ch_1.pdf
I agree with both of the definitions provided for cyberterrorism. With technology growing and expanding, online securities seem more legit and reliable. But conversely, these new technologies may make it easier for computer gurus to hack into other computers. Cyberterrorism is a growing issue and I don't think that's going to change anytime soon.
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