Cyberterrorism?

Abstract

The term cyberterrorism is becoming increasingly common in the popular culture, yet a solid definition of the word seems to be hard to come by. While the phrase is loosely defined, there is a large amount of subjectivity in what exactly constitutes cyberterrorism. In the aftermath of the September 11th attacks, this is somewhat disconcerting. In an attempt to define cyberterrorism more logically, a study is made of definitions and attributes of terrorism and terrorist events. From these attributes a list of attributes for traditional terrorism is developed. This attribute list is then examined in detail with the addition of the computer and the Internet considered for each attribute. Using this methodology, the online world and terrorism is synthesized to produce a broader but more useful assessment of the potential impact of computer-savvy terrorists. Most importantly, the concept of ‘traditional’ cyberterrorism, which features the computer as the target or the tool is determined to be only a limited part of the true risk faced. Finally, the authors discuss the impact this new view of cyberterrorism has on the way in which one should build one’s defenses. In particular, the breadth of the issue poses significant questions for those who argue for vertical solutions to what is certainly a horizontal problem. Thus, the validity of special cyberterrorism task forces that are disconnected or loosely connected with other agencies responsible for fighting the general problem of terrorism is questioned, and a broader, more inclusive method suggested.