FBI Director James Comey has informed Senate Intelligence Committee members that the Islamic State organization has resorted to online platforms to identify and lure potential recruits, especially people based in the U.S.
Comey told the committee in a written testimony published Wednesday the militant group promotes its terrorist campaign against Western countries through social networks and other websites.
“Several incidents have occurred in the U.S. and Europe over the last few months that indicate this “call to arms” has resonated among ISIL supporters and sympathizers,” he stated.
He noted the changing landscape of Internet communication as one factor that is preventing authorities from intercepting content of critical importance to national security.
According to Comey, the bureau continues to work with federal, state and local government agencies to develop technology-based strategies to protect the U.S. against foreign terrorists as well as homegrown violent extremists.
