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www.AndrewColarik.com Biography

Andrew M. Colarik is an independent information security consultant, researcher, author and inventor. With over twenty-five (25) years utilizing computerized information systems, Dr. Colarik has an extensive knowledge of the foundations, architectures, and protocols of computer and Internet fundamentals and their associated vulnerabilities. He has and continues to provide simple, step-by-step explanations of the risks businesses face and how to protect systems from computer attacks.

Dr. Colarik earned a Ph.D. in Information Systems (Security), and is the holder of a Masters in Business Administration (MIS). The combination of his credentials and years of providing systems training brings a well-balanced insight on key security issues facing organizations today. As a consultant, Dr. Colarik continues to provide systems design, security administration, equipment review and selection, troubleshooting, and hands-on training of installed systems for businesses in the financial, manufacturing, and government industries. As a researcher, author, and inventor, Andrew has been published in top-tier security conferences, authored information security books, and is the inventor of both utility and design patents. The latest of these publications include: Cyber Terrorism: Political and Economic Implications (February 2006), Managerial Guide for Handling Cyber-Terrorism and Information Warfare (January 2005), The Home Executive's Guide To Computer Security (November 2004), World Framework for Security Benchmark Changes (May 2003), and An Integrity Mechanism for File Transfer in Communication Networks (May 2003). Additional publications are currently under development as Dr. Colarik's ongoing research into the security arena continues.

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Session AB1: Session Name
February XX, Time Securing the Global Information Infrastructure from Terrorists
Abstract:

In today's world, we are becoming more connected by communications and information technologies than ever before. Telecommunication systems and computers have global reach transmitting voice and data digitally across transnational borders. These systems support economic infrastructures such as the energy and transportation industries as well as all kinds of commerce and governmental services. This Global Information Infrastructure is the principle foundation for the current integration of economies, cultures and societies that is taking place throughout the world. It allows for the free flow of thoughts, ideas, and life changing events that are used in instilling a greater sense of freedom and open democratic processes to people around the world. Never before has there been so much access to so much information that is available in a moments notice. These prolific capabilities have not gone unnoticed by Western adversaries.

With the proliferation of the Internet, global reach by terrorists to potential target intelligence and its dissemination is now possible in near real time. Accessing critical information remotely is but the tip of the iceberg. Because we rely on these systems to control utilities, govern financial institutions, utilize medical databases for health care, and logistical support for military operations, terrorists can institute wide-spread chaos as well as precision targeting through a host of technology-driven attack methods. These new technologically skilled terrorists are providing the information and communication support for terrorist operations. As their skills continue to increase (and they will), cyber terrorists will commence assaults on high value targets through the interception of confidential communications, the modification of critical data resulting in physical harm, and the denial of resources in times of crisis used in conjunction with physical attacks.

This presentation is intended to help create an awareness of:

• The role of information technology in terrorism
• Identifies the foundational components of the Global Information Infrastructure
• Puts forward a host of attack scenarios for key economic sectors and individuals

In short, it is the usage of technology, and in particular the Global Information Infrastructure, by which terrorists communicate, coordinate and facilitate their initiatives that this presentation seeks to address. It is a brief designed to provide an overview of terrorist activities and their evolving use of information technologies.