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Subversion via the Net

There are ways for criminals to avoid detections by the authorities. 

The terrorists who were responsible for the attacks in New York City apparently had their messages encrypted before emailing to their counterparts.

 

Thus, these encrypted messages passed off as harmless information. Anyone can abuse or use such software as they are readily available on the Net.

Another way to escape attention is to create a chatroom among thousands of chatrooms in IRC and discuss with others who know of the existence of this chatroom. The chatroom can exist for just a day and close before anyone can stumble upon it.

These tactics could be used by those who intend to subvert the society such as rioters and protestors. In the shortest time, they can gather their supporters to protest on the streets.

 

Find out more from Newsweek: Coded Communications

 

Cyberwarfare

Hitherto, there have been sporadic hacking of websites and unleashing of computer viruses. 

While these crimes are on an individual basis, it may be possible that terrorists and other criminal groups may organise concerted attacks on websites and unleash powerful viruses, thus crippling businesses and proper running of other parts of society. For example, the FBI suspects that the outbreak of the Nimda virus was a part of the terrorist attack.  

With greater dependence on the Net, we will be one of the potential victims of these Cyberwars.  Are we fighting a losing battle?

*Photo from Time Magazine