Terrorist organizations are posting warnings about using Google Toolbar in jihadist Internet forums, according to an article at washingtonpost.com, citing potential spyware concerns.
From the WaPo article:
“Google Inc. and its growing arsenal of powerful software tools, for example, are both a boon and a bane for terrorist technologists who are increasingly wary that the programs might be turned against them to gather information about their activities. One of the jihadist Web sites cautioned its readers to “Beware of Google!!!” with specific warnings about its relatively new product Google Toolbar. The posting cited another technology blog that said the tool could be configured to operate like spyware, finding data on computers remotely.”
The Google warning comes as part of a larger effort from terrorist groups to educate each other about how to ensure information can’t be intercepted. One group, called the Global Islamic Media Front, perhaps provides a long version of “The Shortened Way of How to Be Cautious; To the User of the Jihadi Forums, In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious and Merciful.”
The title of the long version is, reportedly, approximately 750 words.*
Since terrorists have become aware that email cannot be tracked if not sent, they prefer anonymous web-based email like Hotmail where an email draft can be created and saved. A password can then be shared with another terrorist so they can access the message without giving up any identifying information.
*This statement is completely fictitious. It is not clear if there is actually a long version of the forum post, nor is it known how long the title is. It was a joke. If you laughed, I’m happy. If not, well, there may be no pleasing you. Happy Friday.
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