Understanding Extremism and the Online Radicalization Process

• In Event: Digital Shadows: Exploring Mental Health, Criminal Offending, and Group Membership in the Hacker Community

Abstract

Extremist groups represent a diverse array of ideologies, encompassing white supremacy, religious extremism, political extremism, and other fringe beliefs. As the Internet makes us increasingly more connected, it is imperative that we try to understand the online radicalization process. Using data from a survey of active, malicious hackers, this project aims to identify commonalities and differences among extremist groups, shedding light on their organizational structures, communication tactics, and ideological frameworks. Further, this project delves into the factors that contribute to individuals' susceptibility to radicalization, examining demographic variables, psychological predispositions, and socio-political contexts. By understanding the pathways to radicalization, we can begin to inform preventive interventions and counter-extremism strategies aimed at disrupting the recruitment pipeline and mitigating the spread of extremist ideologies online.

Authors

• Katelyn Smith, University of South Florida

• Christian Jordan Howell, University of South Florida

• Gowtham Lekkala, University of South Florida