1、CRS InsightsInformation Warfare: The Role of Social Media in ConflictCatherine A. Theohary, Specialist in National Security Policy and Information Operations(ctheoharycrs.loc.gov, 7-0844)March 4, 2015 (IN10240)Social media is used as a tool of information warfarea weapon of words that influences the
2、 heartsand minds of a target audience, and a weapon of mass disruption that can have effects on targets inthe physical world. Low-cost, easily accessible social media tools act as a force multiplier by increasingnetworking and organizing capabilities. The ability to rapidly disseminate graphic image
3、s and ideas toshape the public narrative transforms social media into a strategic weapon in the hands of terrorists,insurgent groups, or governments engaged in conflict.Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, blogs, and a host of other social media applications are used by terroristorganizations to identify, ra
4、dicalize, and recruit new warriors; provide training tools and resources forthe radicalized; raise money; publicize successes; and shape public perception regarding ongoinghostilities. Al-Qaeda has a media apparatus that distributes video and graphic products online throughjihadist forums, blogs, an
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