What type of asymmetric attack has gained popularity among terrorists since 2014?

Motorized vehicle attacks using unarmored vehicles have gained popularity among terrorists since 2014 due to their simplicity and effectiveness in targeting crowds and public spaces. This form of asymmetric attack requires minimal resources and planning, making it attractive to individuals or small groups looking to cause maximum harm with relatively low risk of detection. Vehicles can easily blend into normal traffic, and, when used in an attack, they can inflict significant casualties and create widespread panic.

The increase in these attacks can be attributed to several factors, including their ability to bypass security measures that are often focused on preventing other forms of terrorism, such as bombings or armed assaults. The impact of such attacks is often amplified by media coverage, which can inspire others to undertake similar actions, contributing to a cycle of violence. This tactic has been leveraged by various terrorist organizations and lone actors alike, showing its versatility as a means of instilling fear.

In contrast, although suicide bombings, aerial drone strikes, and cyber-attacks are significant threats, they do not reflect the same trend in popularity since 2014 that vehicle attacks have shown. Suicide bombings require more sophisticated planning and commitment from the attackers, while drone strikes are typically employed by military rather than terrorist entities. Cyber attacks, while increasingly