Ebook: Mathematical Methods in Counterterrorism

Terrorism is one of the serious threats to international peace and security that we face in this decade. No nation can consider itself immune from the dangers it poses, and no society can remain disengaged from the efforts to combat it. The termcounterterrorism refers to the techniques, strategies, and tactics used in the ?ght against terrorism. Counterterrorism efforts involve many segments of so- ety, especially governmental agencies including the police, military, and intelligence agencies (both domestic and international). The goal of counterterrorism efforts is to not only detect and prevent potential future acts but also to assist in the response to events that have already occurred. A terrorist cell usually forms very quietly and then grows in a pattern – sp- ning international borders, oceans, and hemispheres. Surprising to many, an eff- tive “weapon”, just as quiet – mathematics – can serve as a powerful tool to combat terrorism, providing the ability to connect the dots and reveal the organizational pattern of something so sinister. The events of 9/11 instantly changed perceptions of the wordsterrorist andn- work, especially in the United States. The international community was confronted with the need to tackle a threat which was not con?ned to a discreet physical - cation. This is a particular challenge to the standard instruments for projecting the legal authority of states and their power to uphold public safety. As demonstrated by the events of the 9/11 attack, we know that terrorist attacks can happen anywhere.

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Contributions from leading counterterrorism experts from around the world Includes methods for utilizing mathematics and computer science techniques to fight terrorism Combines theoretical and practical aspects with examples drawn from case studies The present work presents the most current research from mathematicians and computer scientists from around the world to develop strategies for counterterrorism and homeland security to the broader public. New mathematical and computational technique concepts are applied to counterterrorism and computer security problems. Topics covered include strategies for disrupting terrorist cells, border penetration and security, terrorist cell formation and growth, data analysis of terrorist activity, terrorism deterrence strategies, information security, emergency response and planning. Since 2001, tremendous amounts of information have been gathered regarding terrorist cells and individuals potentially planning future attacks. This book addresses this need to develop new countermeasures. Interested readers include researchers, policy makers, politicians, and the members of intelligence and law enforcement agencies. Content Level » Research Keywords » Counterterrorism - Data Analysis of terrorist activity - Emergency response and planning - Homeland Security - Information harvesting - Information security - Mathematical Methods Related subjects » Algebra - Criminology & Criminal Justice - Political Science - Theoretical Computer Science