The jihadist terrorist attack in Villach shows the extent to which radicalization has shifted to the digital realm. Platforms such as TikTok are no longer just for entertainment purposes, but are used specifically by extremist groups such as IS to indoctrinate young people.
Dr. Florian Hartleb, ACIPSS researcher, political scientist and terrorism researcher, analyzes this development and warns of the dangers of digital indoctrination. The combination of emotionalizing short videos, algorithms and hate messages is drawing young people into a dangerous vortex.
In a guest commentary in the “Presse” of 17 February 2025, Dr Hartleb explains how Islamist actors use social media as a radicalization tool.
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https://www.diepresse.com/19374463/nach-villach-die-radikalisierung-beginnt-auf-tiktok