Start-up Builds Algorithm to Detect ISIS Propaganda

British start-up, OnData.io, has built a technology platform that identifies people at risk of radicalisation, based on their Internet browsing history.

Unlike traditional Internet monitoring tools, which rely either on lists of “bad" websites or simple decision rules to flag “undesirable" content, OnData.io uses advances in artificial intelligence to infer intent. This is crucial in the fight against terrorism, as jihadi content is often fast changing and ambiguous in nature.

It will benefit governments and companies worldwide with an interest in identifying people at risk of radicalisation.

• It will help schools and universities identify students most likely to join so-called Islamic State.
• It will help companies that play a critical part in maintaining our transport and energy infrastructure identify Islamic State sympathisers amongst their staff.
• It will help governments and intelligence services focus counter-terrorism efforts on those who are most likely to offend.

OnData.io, which launches today, has spent one year creating and tuning an algorithm that detects ISIS propaganda at scale, in real time. It can analyse vast amounts of data in seconds.

“Islamic State has used the Internet to great effect to spread its word. This creates challenges as well as opportunities to leverage this data to identify users most at risk of radicalisation" said company founder, Stefan Hunt.

OnData.io is a British start-up headquartered in London, UK. It is privately owned and independently operated.