The Evolving Nature of Terrorism: From Traditional Methods to Cyber Threats
The Changing Definition of Terrorism
As times change, so does the definition of terrorism. Today's modern terrorist no longer relies solely on explosive-laden vests or assault rifles. Instead, access to a laptop, encrypted applications, and digital finance can be equally lethal. With physical borders becoming more fortified and traditional terrorist networks facing increased pressure, extremist groups are swiftly moving into cyberspace, creating an invisible and boundless threat that is significantly harder to identify and combat.
From Hawala to Cryptocurrency
For decades, terrorist financing has depended on informal money transfer methods like hawala, cash, and fake charities. While these networks still exist, cryptocurrencies and dark web marketplaces are rapidly taking their place. Digital currencies are gaining popularity due to their ability to maintain anonymity and facilitate cross-border transactions without traditional banking oversight. On the dark web, extremist groups raise funds through illegal trade, donations under the guise of humanitarian efforts, and even cybercrime. Unlike traditional financing, these transactions leave minimal evidence, complicating the work of intelligence and law enforcement agencies.
Radicalization 2.0
Recruitment methods have also evolved. In the past, radicalization relied on physical locations—religious institutions, training camps, or face-to-face networks. Today, encrypted platforms like Telegram and Signal, gaming chat rooms, and social media forums have become new centers for ideological dissemination. Extremist propagandists exploit anonymity to target young users, gradually normalizing violence through memes, videos, and selective narratives. Gaming platforms, in particular, offer an unexpected avenue where casual conversations can seamlessly transition into ideological indoctrination. Radicalization is no longer overt or explicit; it has become subtle, personal, and continuous.
The Situation in India
Between January 2024 and September 2025, the Indian Ministry of Home Affairs' Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) identified at least 27 cryptocurrency exchanges allegedly used by cybercriminals as money laundering channels. Through these platforms, approximately ₹623.63 crore was withdrawn from around 2,872 victims, with amounts ranging from ₹360.16 crore from one exchange to ₹6.01 crore from another. Over the past three years, I4C has analyzed at least 144 cases and found that cryptocurrencies are being used to funnel money stolen from cybercrimes into international criminal networks.
Security Threats Beyond Borders
Cyber and crypto-based terrorism presents an unprecedented challenge. There is no clear battlefield, no direct attackers, and no singular moment of impact. This threat spreads gradually and invisibly—through screens, servers, and information. As governments strengthen physical security, the real battlefield is shifting online. Combating this invisible enemy will require not only robust cyber laws and financial oversight but also digital literacy, platform accountability, and international cooperation. In the era of cyber terrorism, warfare extends beyond merely preventing attacks; it involves protecting people's minds, information, and personal beliefs.