ABSTRACT
Internet-caused crises are a special case of technology-based crises, which are typically rooted in the system’s complexity and the inter-connectedness of components in the system. Such cybercrises involve triggering events that occur in cyberspace, create significant uncertainty, disrupt organizational operations, and might mar the organization’s relationships or reputation—either online or offline. Not surprisingly, the study of crises and risks in the context of cyberspace is an emerging field that blends research on crises and risk with the emerging field of informatics (how people use computers) and captology. Despite the changing circumstances, it is clear that new technologies have much to offer organizations and individuals as resources in dealing with crises and risks. This is particularly true for mobile communications devices, which are just now beginning to be exploited as organizational communication tools. Generational differences are especially noteworthy in crisis and risk communication.
