Computer hacking and cyber terrorism: The real threats in the new millennium?

As the new millennium approaches, we are living in a society that is increa singly dependent upon information technology. However, whilst technology ca n deliver a number of benefits, it also introduces new vulnerabilities that can be exploited by persons with the necessary technical skills. Hackers r epresent a well-known threat in this respect and are responsible for a sign ificant degree of disruption and damage to information systems. However, th ey are not the only criminal element that has to be taken into consideratio n. Evidence suggests that technology is increasingly seen as potential tool for terrorist organizations. This is leading to the emergence of a new thr eat in the form of 'cyber terrorists', who attack technological infrastruct ures such as the Internet in order to help further their cause. The paper d iscusses the problems posed by these groups and considers the nature of the responses necessary to preserve the future security of our society.