Some might assert that the next wave of terrorism will be digital, precisely the topic of this collection of materials from a “Multidisciplinary Conference in Terrorism” held in the UK.

Fourteen authors in nine chapters comprising approximately 190 pages discuss how terrorists and terrorist organizations function in cyberspace, what is the threat posed by these activities, and how deterrence might occur. Social, psychological, and political issues are addressed, not computer technologies and software solutions. Hence, a non-technologist will profitably read and understand the presentation.

The first chapter addresses the diverse online activities of terrorists. Next, the lone actor’s Internet usage is examined. Disruptive “hacktivism” is discussed with a case history of the Turkish RedHack terrorist group. The authors discuss a cost-benefit analysis, noting that cyber-terrorism is more costly to undertake than typical bombings. How the media presents cyber-terrorism is examined, with the concept of “moral panics” introduced. Typical criminal sanctions are not a deterrent, and increasing the cost to the would-be terrorist through improved cyber security is likely more effective. Surveillance versus privacy is discussed with a review of US National Security Agency programs such as PRISM and MYSTIC. The lack of European and US cooperation continues to be a problem with the US taking a battlefield approach versus the European regulatory approach. Finally, the international legal environment needs revision with special attention to reforming the law of national self-defense.

Each chapter contains its own list of references and notes, and there is a comprehensive book index. Thus, the reader may rapidly locate particular topics of interest. The collection is a thoughtful addition to the analysis of cyber-terrorism.