Speakers & Organizers   

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:

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.