19th Interpol Conference of Heads of National Central Bureaux

Why is it in the news?

India highlighted the ongoing threat of online radicalization as a significant challenge to global security during the 19th Interpol Conference of Heads of National Central Bureaux.

Radicalization

· Defined as the process where individuals or groups adopt radical ideologies condoning violence, including terrorism, to achieve specific goals.

· Exploited through internet platforms, especially social media, for radicalization, indoctrination, recruitment, and financing.

Role of Internet in Challenging National Security

Social media serves as an echo chamber for spreading propaganda, disinformation, conspiracy theories, hate speech, and inciting violence. For instance, Kozhikode arson case.
Facilitates terror fundraising campaigns, utilizing virtual or crypto assets that are hard to track.
Techniques like micro-targeting and psychological profiling enable strategic tailoring of radical content.
Increase in cybercrimes and organized crimes linked to online activities.

Challenges in Addressing Internet Security Concerns

Way Forward

Targeted counter-narrative campaigns to debunk misinformation and disrupt echo chambers.
Implementation of content moderation and fact-checking measures.
Promotion of international cooperation among law enforcement agencies, intelligence agencies, and policymakers.
Strengthening cybersecurity measures while regulating virtual and crypto assets.

Interpol

· Established in 1923 as an inter-governmental organization.

· Facilitate information exchange between national police forces.

· 196 member countries, including India.

· Organizational Structure: General Assembly, General Secretariat, Executive Committee, and National Central Bureaus (NCBs).

· Central Bureau of India (CBI) serves as India’s designated NCB.

AMIGOS IAS