Cyberterrorism

Abstract

There is considerable debate about whether cyberterrorism poses a serious threat to society. Although much has been dramatized in the popular media, there is legitimate danger. Because the term cyberterrorism has been improperly used and overused, a clear understanding of the danger of cyberterrorism must begin with a clear definition. Currently, computer networks are attacked and compromised daily because of the security's inability to keep pace with the growth of connectivity and because of readily available hacking tools and techniques. Because most critical infrastructure is networked, it is at risk. Although many of the daily invasions are hackers trying to get in just to see if they can, acts of vandalism, or denial-of-service attacks, individuals are gaining access to sensitive information. The real danger of cyberterrorism, however, lies in the computer's use as both a terrorist tactic and a force multiplier.