This paper has two strands. Firstly, it considers the changing character of conflict, particularly the nature of modern terrorism, and how this is impacting upon cultural icons. Secondly, it considers the changing character of communication, in particular, the movement from mass communication to networked communication. Subsequently, these strands are considered in tandem to identify a new vulnerability for World Heritage sites in contemporary conflicts. I argue that vast changes in the media landscape, combined with changes in the nature of conflicts, constitute an unrecognised threat to cultural heritage, and that World Heritage sites are increasingly vulnerable to extremists seeking maximum impact for their political agendas. What is new is the opportunity that the media revolution provides for the increased impact of destruction, both locally and globally. As such, new media constitutes a fresh—and currently under- rated—threat to cultural heritage.