'Agent Smith' malware that secretly replaces Whatsapp spreads to 25 million phones
The infection has hit devices throughout the world, including the UK, US and Australia
Social media is often used for research by extremists, making it easy for them to identify individuals who could be vulnerable to being radicalised.
How Extremist Content Is Accessed Online
- Accidentally: someone may view videos/content online, but wind up on a completely different topic to where they started from.
- Curiosity: based on news stories, some may want to find out more information about an extremist group online, and view their website & social media channels.
- Seeking belonging: many people go online to find a community they can belong to and identify with. Radicalisers will play on this, and target vulnerable people to join their cause.
How to Guard Against Online Radicalisation
- While you may not come across content yourself, be aware that groups do publish videos, news articles, pictures etc. to draw people in - particularly those under 30.
- Rely on trusted news outlets for information.
- Keep an eye on family members, friends & others you think may be susceptible to radicalisation. Signs to look for include (but are not limited to):
- Has their behaviour changed?
- Has their physical appearance changed to fit in with a group?
- Have they become withdrawn or introverted?
- Have their beliefs altered?
- Are they making unusual travel plans?
- Are mutual friends and acquaintances also concerned?
FREE TRAINING
Prevent Online Grooming: Keeping Your Family Safe
Our Prevent Online Grooming sessions are designed to cover:
The grooming process
What signs there may be that a child/young person is being groomed
Info on the latest apps & gaming trends to be aware of
An insight into the dark web
How groomers use social media to radicalise young people
Help and support available to you
You can view available sessions we are holding across Warwickshire here. Alternatively, if your school parents group; youth professionals team; or frontline service wish to receive this FREE training at a time and date convenient for you; please email us at communitysafety@warwickshire.gov.uk
Reporting Terrorist & Extremist Material Online
If you come across terrorist and harmful extremist content online, report it to www.gov.uk/report-terrorism
If you are concerned about an individual, you should go through Warwickshire’s Channel Process. Channel is a key element of the Prevent Strategy. It is a multi-agency approach to identifying and providing support to individuals who are at risk of being drawn into terrorism.
For more information on the Channel Panel Process, and to view the Prevent Strategy in Warwickshire, please visit the Safe In Warwickshire website.
