Bulletin of Community Engagement
Vol. 6 No. 2 (2026): Bulletin of Community Engagement

Virtual Directed Radicalization: Digital Bai'at and "DIY" Terrorism Among Adolescents

Muhamad Syauqillah (Universitas Indonesia, Indonesia)
Ami Prindani (Universitas Indonesia, Indonesia)
Juwarti Hafsah (Institute for Strategic Transformation, Indonesia)
Achmad Sauri (Universitas Islam Jakarta, Indonesia)



Article Info

Publish Date
18 Jul 2026

Abstract

This study examines the cyber radicalization process among Indonesian adolescents, analyzing their transition from digital exposure to operational readiness for terrorism. Utilizing a qualitative case study approach, data were collected through in-depth interviews and document analysis of three adolescents exposed to radical ideologies. The findings were interpreted through the Three Stages of Terrorism Framework. Results reveal a structured progression: the pre-radicalism phase is driven by psychosocial vulnerabilities and identity crises; the exposure phase is accelerated by social media algorithms, filter bubbles, and echo chambers; and the terror act phase manifests in operational capabilities, including online pledges of allegiance (bai'at) and "Do-It-Yourself" (DIY) bomb-making. Furthermore, the study introduces the concept of Virtually Directed Radicalization (VDR), illustrating how anonymous online facilitators remotely guide vulnerable youth from passive content consumption to binding operational commitments. The study concludes that cyberspace now functions not merely as a propaganda medium, but as a comprehensive ecosystem for ideological indoctrination and clandestine operational preparation, necessitating urgent, digitally informed counterterrorism and psychosocial interventions.

Copyrights © 2026






Journal Info

Abbrev

bce

Publisher

Subject

Religion Arts Humanities Education Social Sciences Other

Description

The mission of Bulletin of Community Engagement is to serve as the premier peer-reviewed, interdisciplinary journal to advance theory and practice related to all forms of outreach and engagement . This includes highlighting innovative endeavors; critically examining emerging issues, trends, ...