Abstract
Aim: The purpose of this article is the identification of contemporary challenges, the source of which is human activity in the cyberspace, as well as provision of an analysis of potential risks following the rapid development of IT networks. The article identifies risk factors and describes potential behaviour of cybercrime perpetrators, and cyber terrorists, which pose risks to the operation of emergency services and proper functioning of the emergency notification system. Therefore, the article intends to identify risks, which should be considered and utilised in the design of appropriate preventive strategies against cybercrime and cyber terrorism.
Introduction: Current developments in IT surpass the development of social sciences concerning human behaviour in cyberspace and response to development of new technology. Technological developments precede the creation of laws and consequently we frequently encounter an absence of legal norms, which specify appropriate action to evolving situations. Consequently, there is some speculation about potential behaviour of humans in relation to developments of IT networks and scenarios are developed in response to needs associated with the conduct of operations in complex circumstances, both legal as well as practical. Training, which incorporates such elements, may be useful for real life rescue operations.
Methodology: Available reports were analysed (Report concerning cyberspace safety in the Republic of Poland 2013, Poland 2013 Crime and Safety Report) as well as available literature about cyber terrorism and cybercrime risks. Research has identified main sources of threats as well as hypothetical scenarios based on IT network attacks identified to date, with a particular focus on aspects associated with successful operation of rescue services.
Conclusions: The authors recommend further research about technological developments, in the context of human behaviour and creation of preventive strategies against emerging threats, the source of which may be cyberspace activity. The importance of a continuous training system, to deal with current threats, which emerge from technological progress is emphasised, as well as the need for education about the consequences of future technological developments. Opportunities arising from technological developments should be grasped, but potential risks from emerging threats should be minimized. It is also necessary to promote research and interdisciplinary cooperation between the uniformed services responsible for safety and rescue operations.
Keywords: cyber terrorism, cybercrime, IT threat, rescue services
Type of article: review article