Use of Geographic Information Systems in Cyber Warfare and Cyber Counterterrorism

Abstract

Geographic information systems (GIS) are defined and discussed both in general and specifically with reference to their applications in three distinct modalities. These are, firstly, the application of computer mapping and spatial analysis technologies encompassed by the term GIS in counter terrorism. Secondly, the potential for misuse of GIS technologies in both terrorism in general and more specifically the unique vulnerabilities of these suites of complex programs and the huge and sophisticated datasets that are managed by GIS programs to exploitation and damage by cyber terrorists. Lastly the ways in which these terrorist threats to geo-spatial infrastructure can be detected, avoided and minimized will be discussed.