The Role of Facebook in Facilitating Criminal Radicalization: From Criminological Analysis.

Abstract

In Bangladesh, Facebook facilitates the process of criminal radicalization, according to this study. In other words, they show how extremist groups use Facebook to promote propaganda, recruit young people and mobilize them to act both online and offline. The theories of criminology used in the research are Strain Theory,1 Theory of Differential Association2 and Cyber-Criminology3 which explain the functioning of society and how people are impacted socially and online. This research examines the workings of Facebook in Bangladesh as an algorithm, echo chamber and loss of fake news hate speech and propaganda. There are many real-world instances of how these elements can influence people. It further explains the ways that youth can be drawn in, influenced and motivated to take action offline after online exposure.4 These findings reveal that law enforcement faces difficulties in the online suits and that current methods remain unhelpful. This study also raises questions of ethics on how to safeguard free speech while curbing extremist activities. The study provides a better insight into the occurrence of online radicalization globally through comparison of Bangladesh with other countries.5 This study also suggests community awareness programs, building capacity on digital literacy, and improvements in online safety policies as practical measures that can reduce radicalization. The policymakers, police and members of the society can make Facebook a safe place for everybody and restrict the influence of extremists.