This is interesting, because this is the same method of communication that the Mumbai terrorists used to communicate. Short concise orders that are instantly transmitted by phone via text messaging. What I think would be interesting is to somehow break into a network that is using text messaging, and throw some orders in there to mess with that network. Either that, or figure out a way to just make these guys paranoid about using this communication system, and force them to use something else, like just human couriers. That way, you have a communication system that is built upon the fallible mechanism of the human. –Matt
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Somalia’s text message insurgency
By Mohamed Mohamed
Published: 2009/03/16
The name of Somalia’s Islamist insurgent group al-Shabab – it means “The Lads” – may conjure images of a lovable band of rogues.
But the radical militia is a fiercely secretive and ruthless organisation with alleged links to al-Qaeda.
The leaders of the group – which has taken over swathes of central and southern Somalia – are unknown to their subordinates.
The middle lieutenants get their orders through text messages, or phone calls from recognised voices, giving them proof the instructions are coming from the right person.
The leaders of al-Shabab are called “emirs” and they do not usually come from the region they administer.
The emirs are said to use text messaging systems daily. The mid-ranking emirs and foot soldiers are given prepaid phone cards to carry out their day-to-day operations.
Text messages are also used to threaten those al-Shabab believes oppose them.
Anyone who ignores these warnings is likely to receive a visit from the gunmen.