Online Research Techniques and Methodologies in the Study of Left-Wing Extremism

Abstract

Social science researchers face risks when studying deviant or criminal behavior, especially when researching violent extremism online. The author emphasizes the importance of acquiring necessary skills to operate safely and anonymously. In the (cyber-)social ecosystem characterized by the centrality of a new dimension of human experience that goes beyond the internet and social media, the Left-Wing Extremism and Violent Left-Wing and Anarchist Extremism (VLWAE) constitute an important challenge for security. The author provides guidelines for conducting online research on Left-Wing Extremism entities using Open Source Intelligence (OSINT), while ensuring digital hygiene and safety, to study their online activities, propaganda, and radicalization strategies. OSINT enables researchers to collect information from various sources, including private and encrypted messaging channels, to understand the organization and mobilization of extremist campaigns. The use of various tools and techniques is presented to highlight the most relevant elements that should be included in a research report on left-wing extremism target. The author also focuses on the importance of technological innovation to support research in this field. Moreover, a strong integration between Artificial Intelligence (AI) and OSINT is revolutionizing online investigations of left-wing extremism and other forms of extremism and terrorism. AI-based technology allows researchers to analyze large amounts of images, videos, and data with the aim for identifying patterns and trends. In the near-future scenario, AI will be used in extremist individuals and entities profiling to anticipate new onlife security threats.