Until recently, al-Qaida didn't pose much of a threat online because it used outdated technology. Having modern encryption tools changes the equation.
Last week, an Islamist Web site called Al-Ekhlas released updated encryption software to help keep secret communications from prying eyes. The site is allegedly frequented by al-Qaida supporters.
According to the Middle East Media Research Institute, the first version of the software, "Mujahideen Secrets," was released a year ago as "the first Islamic computer program for secure exchange [of information] on the Internet." MEMRI says that the program includes "the five best encryption algorithms, and with symmetrical encryption keys (256 bit), asymmetrical encryption keys (2048 bit) and data compression [tools]."
Reuters reports that the new version of the software, "Mujahideen Secrets 2," was developed by Al-Ekhlas "in order to support the mujahideen (holy war fighters) in general and the (al Qaeda-linked group) Islamic State in Iraq in particular."
The Al-Ekhlas Web site is hosted by Florida-based Noc4hosts.
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