Abstract This paper begins by defining what cyberterrorism is and a brief history since its appearance on the net. It then examines several examples of cyberterrorism and the unique harm done by each of these forms. Examples given are virus spreading, murder, propaganda and data dibbling. The writer finally examines the major players in the game of cyberterrorism and terrorist groups that are active in this crime.
From the Paper "The FBI defines terrorism as the illegitimate use of force or violence against persons or property to intimidate or coerce a government, the civilian population, or any segment thereof, in furtherance of political or social objectives. Cyber-terrorism can be the use of computing assets to threaten or force others. An example of cyber-terrorism could be hacking into a hospital computer system and changing someone's medicine prescription to a lethal dosage as an act of vengeance. It sounds far fetched, but these things can and do occur. Cyber terrorism has also been defined as ?the use of computing resources against persons or property to intimidate or compel a government, the civilian population, or any segment thereof, in furtherance of political or social objectives.?1."
Abstract This paper examines how computers can be used as tools by terrorists and how terrorists can target computers and computer networks in acts of terrorism. The paper contends that the information technology revolution has made both public and private sector computer systems and networks more vulnerable to attacks. It also asserts that the increased dependence on computer systems also makes cyber-terrorism a more menacing threat.
Outline:
Introduction
Cyber-Terrorism The Threat posed by Cyber-Terrorism Devastating Potential Consequences of Cyber-Terrorism in the Wake of the Information Technology Revolution
Securing the Nation Against Cyber-Terrorism Conclusion
From the Paper "According to Theofrastous (2003) the conventional threats associated with attacks to America's IT infrastructure are well-known. However, there are now more sophisticated threats that involve the attacking of the IT infrastructure using unconventional means (Theofrastous 2003). The author points out that from an e-commerce standpoint, the new IT structure involves both business to consumer and business to business contexts (Theofrastous 2003). These contexts have encouraged the establishment of standardization in several important areas including the authentication of electronic transaction and antifraud measures (Theofrastous 2003). "
Abstract In this article, the writer explains that the term cyber-terrorism has developed as a result of the role of modern technology in the furtherance of national and international terrorism. The writer notes that al Qaeda appears to love the Internet and that there is a growing realization of the way that computers and the Internet are being used as another tool in the terrorist's arsenal. The writer concludes that there is little doubt that with the growth of the Internet and modern digital communications systems the threat of cyber-terrorism is one that is set to increase.
From the Paper "It is usually the case that cyber-terrorists have political aims that motivate their crimes. In the information age the information that a terrorist may need to plan an attack on, for example, a power station is contained on government or private computers somewhere. Therefore the art of hacking or illegally gaining entry to restricted data via the Internet and computers has become one of the ways that cyber-terrorists operate. A good example of this was during the Gulf War in 1991 the Pentagon computer was hacked or illegally entered and secret material about the Patriot missile was stolen."
Abstract This paper examines how cyberterrorism and hacking have become perpetual threats to national security and economy and how they exist in so many different forms that it is difficult to place them under one specific category. The one thing common in all such crimes is use of computer, which acts as a shield between the criminal and victim, thus protecting the former from immediate detection for possible arrest or prosecution. It looks at how the government, along with intelligence agencies and FBI, is trying to control and protect data available on the most critical networks, including those of the military, and how, although cyberterrorism presents a clear and present danger, with effective measures we can control the possibility of cyber attack, and even if one occurs, our security measures should be designed to help us recover the loss easily and without long-term negative consequences.
From the Paper "Even before the September 11 attacks, intelligence agencies had alerted the nation of the imminent danger from a new breed of terrorist known as cyber-terrorists. President Bush warned the nation that, ?American forces ale overused and under funded precisely when they are confronted by a host of new threats and challenges--the spread of weapons of mass destruction, the rise of cyber terrorism, the proliferation of missile technology." Cyber terrorism in simpler words is terrorism carried out with technologically advanced means where networks play an important role as terrorist illegal gain access to confidential information. This breed of terrorists is certainly more menacing than the ones we had hitherto been trying to root out. Cyber terrorism is dangerous because catching the criminal is a daunting task and because access to sensitive data can wreak havoc as once a person enters a database, it takes a while to detect intrusion and takes even longer to block access."
Abstract This paper examines cyber-terrorism and the effect it could have on the United States' critical infrastructure. Additionally, in order to determine whether there is a need for special precautions, the paper also analyzes the use of information technology by terrorists, discusses what constitutes cyber-terrorism and looks at the real threat it poses for society.
Table of Contents
Chapter 1: Introduction
Statement of the Problem
Purpose of Study
Definition of Terms
Chapter 2: Preliminary Review of Related Literature
Chapter 3: Methodology
Chapter 4: Conclusion
From the Paper "The commission found that the combination of electricity, communications and computers are all essential components required for the continued existence of the U.S., all of which can be threatened by cyber-warfare. The resources to launch a cyber attack are commonly available; a computer and a connection to the Internet are all that is needed.These infrastructures are importance to protect. Without them, the country would be in danger. They are, therefore, prime targets for terrorists. Is the cyber-infrastructure in the United States designed with such security considerations in mind? According to Congressman Ciro Rodriguez statement, "Though the benefits of the Internet are clear, the widespread network of interconnected computer systems also poses significant risks to our national security. The same cyber technology that connects our homes, our schools and our businesses to the rest of the world, if not properly protected, may also provide terrorists with the tools they need to launch cyber attacks against our nation" (p. 37). These comments relate directly to the nature of the potential threat facing the country and its interests abroad, and these issues are discussed further below."
Abstract The paper explores how international terrorism is related to and often dependent on modern communications technology and the connectivity in our social, economic and personal environment. The paper looks at cyber-terrorism and shows how the spread of terrorism is an almost unavoidable result of the proliferation of electronic media and technology.
Outline:
Introduction
Extremist Groups and Technology
Divergent Groups and Communication
Varieties of Cyber-Terrorism Conclusion
From the Paper "The growth of terrorism in our contemporary world is a fact that is without doubt one of the greatest threats to peace and civilization today. The question that may be asked is why has terrorism become such a global and international threat to the world? Terrorism as a style of protest and even warfare, characterized by the aim of instilling fear and terror in certain countries or people is not something new in history. Terrorism in some form or another is evident, even from a brief glance at human history. However, in our age, terrorism is international and is often coordinated between different countries and regions of the world."
Tags:cyber-terrorism, hackers, Internet, extremist, groups
Abstract This paper debates the growth of cyberterrorism and the different forms and dangers of this trend. It discusses how e-mail bombs and attacks on internet servers are the lowest forms of informational terrorism in terms of destruction. Higher forms of informational warfare include using the internet as a catalyst to produce physical terrorism on a higher scale.
From the Paper "The Department of Defense definition of terrorism is "the calculated use of violence or the threat of violence to inculcate fear; intended to coerce or to intimidate governments or societies in the pursuit of goals that are generally political, religious, or ideological." (Research, 1) While in physical terrorism, the perpetrator must come in contact with the target, in informational terrorism the perpetrator only needs a computer connection. Not only are the tools of information terrorism more accessible but the implications can be more devastating."
Abstract This paper depicts the unethical stance taken by the government as it takes over the civil liberties of people in the name of national security.
Abstract This paper explains that the unprecedented impact of 9/11 on the consciousness of America and the international community is a new kind of globalized fear surrounding security, which is the product of shared cultural, political and technological factors characterizing the globalized world against another distinct culture, which aims to destroy rather than build or maintain life. The author points out the interrelationship of countries by relating that Arafat's Palestinian Authority documents unmistakably showed that the PA received money from Saudi Arabia, Iran and Iraq, which then was given to terrorist commanders for acts of terrorism against Israelis. The paper relates that the FBI categorizes international terrorism in the U.S. into three categories: (1) Activities of foreign sponsors, such as Iran, Iraq, Syria, Sudan, Libya, Cuba and North Korea, which used terrorism as an operational tool of foreign policy in the past; (2) formalized terrorist groups, such as the Lebanese Hezbollah, Al-Gama'a Al-Islamiyya of Egypt and the HAMAS of Palestine and (3) loosely affiliated international radical extremists who do not represent a particular country, such as those behind the bombing of the World Trade Center in 1993 in New York City.
From the Paper "Developments in the international scene have enabled mass-casualty terrorism. Perceived and gross inequalities in economic resources and standards of living among nations in the world have motivated international terrorism and determined the level of ferocity and viciousness of attacks. Poverty was often blamed as the main cause of domestic terrorism, although there appears no "comprehensive correlation between" poverty and terrorism. But it is different in the international scenario. Free-market globalization gave the Islamic world access to Western values and institutions and this offers explanation for the growth of international terrorism, which is the weaker party's occasion to hit back."
Abstract This paper examines cyber-terrorism the use or targeting of computers and computer networks in acts of terrorism. The devastating potential consequences of cyber-terrorism in the wake of the Information Technology (IT) Revolution and our reliance on computers and computer networks are the focus of the paper.
Abstract Cyber crime is one of the most prevalent and most popular rising crimes being committed today. Law enforcement agencies are struggling to keep up with technology and constantly bump into roadblocks to help them stop this growing crime. This paper attempts to analyze current policy and implement policy recommendations that will aid law enforcement officials to police cyber crime. The paper maintains that, while September 11 shifted America's focus from cyber crime to cyber-terrorism, the facts show that cyber crime is far more dangerous to the American public and the economy.
Outline:
Abstract
What is Cybercrime?
Types of Cybercrime: Identity Theft
Types of Cybercrime: Child Pornography and Sexual Solicitation Types of Cybercrime: Organized Crime
Challenges for Law Enforcement Management
Challenges and Current Policy
Statistics
National Strategy to Secure Cyberspace
Improving the way Law Enforcement Identifies and Investigates Cyber Crime
How to Prevent Cybercrime
Conclusion
From the Paper "One aspect of cybercrime is the ability for sex offenders to prey upon unsuspecting individuals over the internet. American's must remember people are not always who they appear to be. One of the critical topics discussed at the White House Conference was the growing threat of cyber-predators. Nearly 30 million children and youth go online annually and 75% of children between the ages of 14 and 17 use the internet. Research by the University of New Hampshire found that one in five children between the ages of 10 and 17 received a sexual solicitation over the Internet in the last year. One in 33 received an aggressive solicitation - a solicitor who asked to meet them somewhere; called them on the telephone; or sent them regular mail, money, or gifts. The Internet is a tremendous educational resource for parents, teachers, and children. Parental, private sector, and government efforts are continuing to improve online child safety and will help make the Internet a safer and ever more valuable tool for children. "
Abstract The writer of this well-researched paper focuses on the consistent rise in both computer and internet related crimes in the U.S. and the United Kingdom, as well as the strategies that have been implemented to fight these illegal acts. This paper supplies relevant statistics and data regarding this particular topic. The writer contends and details why the term cyber-crime falls into three basic categories: Software piracy, electronic break-ins and computer sabotage. This paper cites several cases of cyber-terrorism, in which computer hackers shut down various public and/or government computer websites, including those of the CIA, FBI and the U.S. Air Force. This paper also delves into the various measures taken to prevent cyber-crimes including: The European Union, which established the Committee of Experts on Crime in Cyberspace, which drafted a binding convention to facilitate international cooperation in the investigation and prosecution of individuals suspected of computer crimes. The U.S. has also developed legislation that deals with specific forms of cyber-crimes, as well as providing copyright protection for various computer programs, which are now recognized by the courts.
From the Paper "Not all attacks are external. Sabotage by employees can also occur. The above Trade and Industry survey also found that almost a third of UK firms had dealt with up to five disciplinary cases of Internet abuse in 2002. Carelessness by employees is almost as threatening as intentional crime. Users make passwords too simple, reveal them when asked, or write them on a post-it near their PC. Carelessness can be countered by the implementation and enforcement of systems use policies and training.
Lastly, because of the fear of terrorism since 9/11, numerous cities throughout the United States have put together disaster plans as well as had practice drills in case the worst occurs. It may be just as important to prepare for the worst for cybercrimes."
Abstract This paper examines how there is a revolution and evolution taking place in the way war can be fought and shows how technology in the information age is being used to fight wars through new and developing means. It shows how both the English and American governments take the threat seriously and have organised departments and agencies, which investigate reports of cyberterrorism. It also talks about information warfare in general and in the Middle East.
Outline
Introduction
Chapter One: Literature Review
Information Society and the New Forms of War
Definitions of Information Warfare
The Future of Modern Warfare
Chapter Two: Research Question
Why and How is Information Warfare Being Used in the Middle East?Chapter Three: Methodology and Methods
Chapter Four: DATA
Tools Used
Hackers Broke into Hezbollah Sites Placing Israel Flags
Palestinian Hackers Took Out Netvision an ISP
Israeli Supporters and Attacks
Palestinian Supporters and Attacks
166 Israeli Sites and 34 Palestinian Attacked by Dec 2000
Palestinians Sent To and Sent Offensive Images
First Worm / Virus Used by the Palestinians
Analysis of Main Types of Attacks
Chapter Five: Discussion
Conclusion
From the Paper "Amongst the various different methods they tried to use, they used the Internet to publicise their plight of governmental oppression, and mistreatment, to enlist the international sanctions applied to the Mexican Government. The government relented into giving the indigenous people back their lands and allowing them to form back into the tribes that they wanted to go to. They used the Internet in a positive manner and gained international support. Where as the Israeli and Palestinian factions that use the Internet have now used "Hacktivism" to attack websites and each other via the use of website graffiti, denial of service attacks and propaganda websites in a cyber-war."
Abstract This paper explains that the most importance of the computers to the terrorists is less in hacking and more in recording their financial ledgers, target lists, attack plans and names of co-conspirators as in the case of Ramzi Yousef, who was the mastermind of the World Trade Center bombing. The author explains that cyberterrorism is expected in the air traffic system because the air traffic control system all over the world are well computerized; however, this fear ignores the fact that these computers do not directly control the aircraft, but act as mere aids to the human controller. The paper discusses the vulnerability of the electrical energy systems, gas and oil pipelines under the SCADAS or Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition systems and of the Defense computer systems, which have had many attacks that have not led to any degradation of the capabilities of the US military.
From the Paper "Yet the problem is not so simple, and the US government has very little power in this regard. This was seen when the Chairman and Vice Chairman regarding critical infrastructure met the President. They had been informed by Finland that researchers had found a serious deficiency in the Internet's standard language for sending data through the switches. The concerned government team had found this to be a threat for air traffic control and military phone links, among other threats. This led to the critical infrastructure board and the homeland security office asking private organizations whether they would tell the government the names of people working in those sites. The FBI can only collect the names of bank employees, but is unable to take action in other industries."
An insight into the different aspects of cyber crime including a definition, a short history, a few famous and important cases and ideas to curtail it.
Abstract This paper discusses cyber crime, criminal activity which targets computers and information, or which uses computers as the means of committing an offense. It examines how it is a very serious and complicated matter that cannot be taken lightly and how without a true understanding, public and private corporations can easily be mislead in the perspective of its gravity. It shows how this thinking opens up weaknesses in public and private computer systems that the cyber criminal could easily take advantage of and exploit for their own gain. It defines cyber crime, breaking it down into a number of sections giving examples of certain crimes that are often committed under each section. Then it provides a brief history describing the development of new laws for the new crimes, specific cases in history concerning cyber crime and also a description of where cyber crime is today and its impact on the individual and companies who are its victims.
From the Paper "Just like the world of street crime the world of cyber crime needs policing tactics and policing units. Yet the goal of the agencies are not really to prevent, but more to investigate crimes that have already happened; the reason for this is because in cyber space there is no physical area where police can patrol to stop crime. So if policing agencies cannot prevent attacks, not including the use of undercover online operations, then who can? This question can be answered in a few ways. Private companies usually hire experts in the field of computers who can find the companies? weaknesses and where they could be attacked and tighten up their network with certain defenses like firewalls, virus scanners, and other various programs. The individual, on the other hand, has to spend money on programs which will detect intrusions and viruses that have infiltrated their personal system. Private industries that create these programs which protect systems would be similar to companies who produce self-defense equipment and classes, because that is what these programs do; they target-harden and help a victim fight back against their attacker."
