In previous commentaries I have talked about the impact of what many are calling
“Big Data.” We live in a world filled with digital facts, figures, books, music, and video.
Most of it is at our fingertips, and that is a good thing. But there is also the great concern
over what could be called “Dark Data.”

Marc Goodman has written about “Dark Data” (The Human Face of Big Data,
Against All Odds Productions, 2012) and is concerned. He has worked on security issues
in more than 70 countries and sees the possibilities for criminals in our digital world.

He reminds us that criminals and terrorists have found ways to use these new
devices and innovations. Sadly, we often underestimate their creativity and can easily be
a step behind those who intend us harm. Sometimes they have better access to
information than law enforcement and Homeland Security.

Drug-runners in Mexico not only have the latest smartphones but have actually
been building their own encrypted radio networks in a majority of the states in their
country. Drug cartels in Columbia are using their vast wealth from drugs “to fund
research and development programs in everything from robotics to supply chain
management.”

During the terrorist attack in Mumbai five years ago, the terrorists were armed not
only “with the standard artillery and explosives, but also with satellite phones,
Blackberrys, night vision goggles, and satellite imagery.” If that is what terrorists had
access to years ago, it is reasonable to assume that the next terrorist attack will come
from terrorists using even more sophisticated technology.

These new technological advances and the incredible amount of data will no
doubt make our world a better place. But we should also realize that criminals and
terrorists will also be there to exploit it. We need to do two things. First, train those in
law enforcement and counterterrorism in the latest technology. Second, make sure the
good guys win the technological arms race against the bad guys.