New media, global terrorism and the cyber battlespace: the role of the internet in radicalisation of young Saudi males

Since the inception of the internet as a communication tool with other functions, there has been increasing interest in its use by terrorists and extremist groups like ISIS and Al-Qaeda for radicalisation. These radical groups view the internet as an integral communication tool that permits non-state actors to exercise direct control over their media output. It also enables them to bypass the mainstream media, which was initially perceived as biased against extremist groups. Research indicates that terrorist groups continue to take advantage of the internet to carry out radicalisation and execute violent extremist activities. The purpose of this study was to examine the link between global radicalisation and internet-based social media platforms. The study explored the role that the internet plays in the radicalisation of young males aged between 18 and 35 in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. To meet the study's objectives, the researcher collected data using survey questionnaires, online surveys with Saudi experts in the field of radicalisation and jihadism, and secondary data sources.
According to the study's findings, the internet and social media have been found to play an enabling role in radicalising male youths in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. These platforms are used by radical groups to spread propaganda, recruit members, train the recruits, plan, and even raise funds for their activities. The analysis from secondary data sources also reveals that one primary motivation for the use of internet technology is that it offers a secure and safe avenue for radicalisation of the youths. This phenomenon permits radical groups to disguise themselves as ordinary users in the virtual world. Consequently, it is easy for them to evade law enforcement agencies in their respective countries.