The Islamic State has often distinguished itself from other terror groups by its ability to recruit young people with new technology. But the group’s new app takes that concept to a new level.
According to Business Insider, ISIS recently developed and released an Android app aimed at recruiting young children.
#ISIS released an Android app for children? https://t.co/S3VpAygvCn#terrorism#brainwashing#Apps#Android#VIKEZpic.twitter.com/qszMiB8MmI
— Vikez (@Vikezmedia) May 12, 2016
The app uses bright colors and music to teach children how to write Arabic letters and traditional Islamic songs. It also teaches militaristic vocabulary — according to the Long War Journal, words like “tank,” “gun,” and “rocket” are among the first words taught within the app.
ISIS has a new app out for kids, and, unsurprisingly, it's full of jihadi references. https://t.co/nko50x7xaHpic.twitter.com/RbokSekKNF
— Newsy (@NewsyVideos) May 12, 2016
ISIS’ app for kids isn’t the group’s first Android app. They’ve previously released Android apps to help spread propaganda and broadcast claims of responsibility for attacks.
ISIS’ apps aren’t available through the Google Play store and are downloaded through file sharing services.
Alex Hider is a writer for the E.W. Scripps National Desk. Follow him on Twitter @alexhider.
