Islamic State online grooming tactics similar to how paedophiles target victims, leaders say
THE way Islamic State grooms young people online is similar to the way paedophiles target their victims — and the people they look for are becoming younger, SA police and Islamic group leaders warn.
THE age of people radicalised by Islamic State is becoming progressively younger because overseas terrorists can better access them online, South Australian police and Islamic group leaders have warned.
SA Police Deputy Commissioner Linda Williams said online grooming by terrorists had similarities to paedophiles’ behaviour.
“In Australia and around the world, what we are seeing is the age of people radicalised is getting younger with online grooming tactics similar to those used by sexual predators,” she said.
“Families and friends are vitally important for those who are vulnerable. Social cohesion and inclusiveness in our society is critical in driving counter narrative to the extremist ideology.”
Islamic Society of SA president Ahmed Zreika agreed, saying he was not surprised the Adelaide woman charged on Tuesday had been groomed online by IS.
“Most of the young people now, they use all online systems and then they can be radicalised online, through YouTube, Google or anything like that,” he said.
He said it was a “shame” the woman had been arrested for a terrorism offence at such a young age.
“We didn’t believe anything like this could happen,” he said.
“We already condemn all forms of communication with any terrorist organisation. It’s unbelievable.
“Of course this will impact badly on our community, especially on our hijabi women.
“This is the first time to hear such shocking news in Adelaide.
“We still couldn’t believe that happened and I strongly believe the authorities are able to control the damage and keep the community safe.”
Australian Federal Police Assistant Commissioner Counter Terrorism Ian McCartney said the arrest highlighted the global nature of terrorism.
“It is concerning that people so young remain susceptible to extremist ideologies and are willing to engage in criminal activities that attract significant penalties,” he said.
“We target criminals and criminal activity, not ideologies or backgrounds.”
He said the AFP would allege the woman — whose name is suppressed — cultivated relationships with Islamic State members and pledged her allegiance to them.
If found guilty, she faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in jail.