Members of Daesh have used messaging apps such as Facebook, Twitter, WhatsApp and, most recently, Telegram, according to claims made by the hacking collective Ghost Security Group last month. The problem, for those with something to hide, with using these methods to communicate is that any of the developers may at any time, allow the government access to any messages on its platform.
To get around this problem, Ghost Security says that Daesh created a proprietary app. The violent extremist group has been directing followers to download an application called the “Amaq Agency app,” made by a group with Daesh ties, to distribute their propaganda.
The Amaq Agency has publicly asserted their support for Daesh, as well as for the attackers in San Bernardino, California.
“The application’s primary purpose is for propaganda distribution. Using the app you are able to follow the most recent news and video clips.” Ghost Security representatives told Defense One.
The app created by Daesh for messaging is called Alrawi.apk, or just “the Alrawi app,” Ghost Security reports. The app allows for “encrypted communications features although rudimentary to Telegram or other more-company created ones.”