Abstract

As with other endeavors, the promise of technology is no less bright for anti-terrorism, which is concerned with stopping terrorist acts before they occur. Based on the 20-20 hindsight of the 9-11 Commission, many believe a combination of technologies and data bases can allow law enforcement and intelligence investigators to identify potential terrorist plots, use a multitude of data bases that contain hidden patterns of information about transactions needed to execute plots, and then mount pre-emptive strikes to stop their plans. Six types of systems cited as major tools in terrorism prevention are critically examined here: (1) regional emergency response networks; (2) the FBI DCS1000; (3) Echelon, an electronic interception system; (4) terrorism watch lists, (5) the multi-state anti-terrorism information exchange (MATRIX); and (6) the Terrorist Information Program (TIP). The systems are conceptualized as three types. Scanners constantly look for information generally or for a specific investigation. Watchers seek to know the location of individuals because they are persons of interest. Synthesizers attempt to interpret data from disparate sources to draw inferences about criminal plots before such schemes can be implemented by the conspirators. Findings suggest that the synthesizers hold the highest promise for prediction and prevention but generate the most strident opposition.

Recommended Citation

Nunn, Sam (2005) "Preventing the Next Terrorist Attack: The Theory and Practice of Homeland Security Information Systems," Journal of Homeland Security and Emergency Management: Vol. 2 : Iss. 3, Article 1.
DOI: 10.2202/1547-7355.1137
Available at: http://www.bepress.com/jhsem/vol2/iss3/1