TERRORIST Use of the Internet and Its Response in KOREA

Abstract

The Internet has some benefits, such as easy access, a vast range of reachable targets, fast flow of information and so on. These benefits make terrorist groups use the Internet and social media services for terrorist purposes. Despite the wide-ranging influence of the Internet-based terrorism, however, most of concerns on cyber terrorism are on cyberattacks. This study suggested the comprehensive approach to cyber terrorism, and for this, explored the types of terrorist use of the Internet and social media services. The contents of the terrorist website and social media services are divided into three parts: current or potential supporters, international public opinion, and their ‘targets’ or ‘enemies’. Terrorist groups such as Al Qaeda and ISIS already built their organizational network on the Internet and social media service, and the political and economic gap between developed countries and less-developed countries brought the possibility of proliferation on terrorism. And the Internet is a communication measure that terrorist groups can easily use and reach to keep their networks. Moreover the popularity of social service attracts many youth to join the terrorist activities. To counter the terrorist use of the Internet, first and foremost, co-operation in global level is needed. International conventions and treaties on regulation of communication for terrorist purpose should be made and brought into force. The most appropriate organization will be the United Nations as its major role is maintaining peace in the world. Next, it is also needed to build a network to control the Internet-based communication. Considering the gaps in counter-terrorism abilities among the countries, it is needed to build a comprehensive control network for countering terrorist communications. Establishment of organization for controlling the terrorist communication is a method to deal with the problem at hand. Lastly, environmental and perceptional change is needed to build atmosphere against terrorism. Awareness on terrorism should be raised. Videos and interviews posted on the Internet justify their ideologies and actions. Furthermore it attracts people into their logics and groups. Thus, development of counter-narrative should be considered. Constructing and maintaining soft power will be effective in countering their narratives.