This conference paper investigates the “virtualization of terrorism,” highlighting how digital technologies facilitate extremist activities along the entire value chain of ideologically motivated violence- from radicalization to attack execution. It emphasizes that terrorists now extensively utilize online platforms for secure communication, recruitment, and operational planning, significantly altering the landscape of modern terrorism. Referring to case studies of notable attacks, such as the 2017 Manchester Arena bombing and the 2019 Halle synagogue shooting, the study aims at illustrating how perpetrators leveraged online resources for radicalization and attack preparation. The research paper also discusses the rise of Generation Z as a new wave of perpetrators, influenced by platforms like TikTok, which has become a tool for recruiting and radicalizing youth. Encrypted messaging apps further complicate counterterrorism efforts by enabling secure communication among extremists. Conclusively, the study underscores the urgent need for adaptive counterterrorism strategies to address the challenges posed by the virtualization of terrorism, which allows for greater anonymity and operational flexibility for terrorists. The findings call for a reevaluation of current approaches to effectively combat the evolving threat landscape shaped by digital technologies.