TED: How this FBI strategy is actually creating US-based terrorists | Trevor Aaronson

The video discusses the FBI's shift in focus to counterterrorism post-9/11, highlighting its use of informants in sting operations. It argues that the FBI often targets mentally ill individuals, creating 'terrorists' rather than catching real threats. The Intercept's investigation reveals questionable practices, supported by research and case studies. Recent operations, such as those involving ISIS suspects, are also examined, suggesting a pattern of entrapment rather than genuine threat prevention.

What was the primary focus of the FBI after the 9/11 attacks?

• Public corruption

• Organized crime

• Financial fraud

• Counterterrorism

How does the FBI primarily use informants in their operations?

• To gather intelligence on financial fraud

• To create opportunities for potential terrorist activities

• To monitor public corruption

• To infiltrate organized crime syndicates

What is a common characteristic of individuals targeted in FBI sting operations?

• They are often wealthy and influential

• They are usually high-ranking government officials

• They have strong connections to international terrorist groups

• They are typically mentally ill and economically desperate

What role did Robert Childs play in an FBI sting operation?

• He was a federal judge

• He was a convicted criminal acting as an informant

• He was a high-ranking FBI agent

• He was a journalist reporting on the case

What was the outcome for Samyaza Mccosh in the FBI sting operation?

• He was sentenced to 40 years in prison

• He fled the country

• He was acquitted of all charges

• He became an FBI informant

What did Trevor Aaronson's research reveal about the FBI's counterterrorism efforts?

• The FBI has successfully prevented all terrorist attacks

• The FBI often creates terrorists rather than catching them

• The FBI has no involvement in counterterrorism

• The FBI focuses solely on financial crimes

What is the role of The Intercept in relation to the FBI's practices?

• It is a financial supporter of FBI operations

• It is a law enforcement partner of the FBI

• It is a media outlet exposing controversial FBI practices

• It is a government agency supporting the FBI