DIGITAL TERRORISM: The Emerging Threat of Behavioral Manipulation in the Digital Age

Waqas Ahmed

doi:10.56982/dream.v3i07.251

Authors

Waqas Ahmed UniKL Business School, Universiti Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.56982/dream.v3i07.251

Keywords:

Digital Terrorism, Behavioral Manipulation, Social Media, Digital Age

Abstract

Digital terrorism represents a growing threat in the digital age, focusing on the manipulation of human behavior rather than technical disruptions. Unlike cyberterrorism, digital terrorism leverages misinformation, disinformation, emotional manipulation, and targeted propaganda to destabilize societies, polarize communities, and incite conflict. This paper examines the mechanisms of digital terrorism, including social media profiling and social engineering, and discusses strategies for protection at the individual, institutional, and state levels. Through scholarly expertise, this paper highlights the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to mitigate the effects of digital terrorism on global stability.

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Author Biography

Waqas Ahmed, UniKL Business School, Universiti Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Waqas Ahmed, an alumnus of Universiti Kuala Lumpur (UniKL), is a research specialist with expertise in Technology Management, Transportation, and ICTD. His work focuses on enhancing digital integration across business, academic, societal, and government levels by analyzing the cognitive perspectives of individuals toward digital disruptions.

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