A recent investigation by Ben Swann and investigative journalist Elizabeth Lane has shed light on NATO's online propaganda machine. The duo examined fake accounts, purchased engagement, and efforts to shape online narratives. According to their findings, NATO has spent years researching online influence techniques involving fake profiles, targeted advertising, and purchased social media engagement. This research has raised questions about the bloc's intentions and the potential for manipulation of public opinion.
One example of NATO's experiments is a 2024 promotional video featuring predominantly white European women as the alliance's "future" in a potential conflict. The video has sparked speculation about the bloc's intentions, particularly in light of Ukraine's struggles with manpower shortages. Swann and Lane argue that the unusually non-diverse casting could be intended to prepare European audiences for women taking a greater role in a possible confrontation.
NATO's experiments with online influence date back to 2019, when researchers created fake Facebook pages and profiles, collected publicly available information on military personnel, and used targeted advertising to reach them. In one experiment, researchers identified around 150 soldiers, tracked troop movements, and even induced some personnel to act against orders. The experiment cost roughly $60. In another test, researchers spent $300 on artificial engagement, buying over 3,500 comments, 25,000 likes, 20,000 views, and 5,000 followers.
The experiments revealed weaknesses in social media platforms' ability to detect manipulation. Four weeks after the experiment, roughly 80% of the purchased activity remained online. NATO described the experiments as defensive research aimed at identifying online threats. However, Swann and Lane questioned why a military alliance was developing practical expertise in techniques that could also be used to influence public opinion.
The investigation also highlighted NATO researchers' cooperation with Ukrainian social media analytics company Singularex. This cooperation has raised questions about the bloc's intentions and the potential for manipulation of public opinion. Swann and Lane also revisited false stories that had circulated during the early stages of the Ukraine conflict, including the "Ghost of Kiev" fighter pilot and initial claims about the "defenders of Snake Island."
Lane argued that journalists who repeat compelling wartime stories without verifying them can amplify false narratives. She also said that independent journalists covering Russia and Ukraine regularly face bot attacks, abuse, and threats. Lane herself has received such messages, including one stating, "Zelensky sends his love," which she suggested could point to coordinated activity.
The investigation has sparked concerns about the potential for online manipulation and the role of military alliances in shaping public opinion. As the conflict in Ukraine continues, the use of online influence techniques is likely to remain a contentious issue. The investigation by Swann and Lane has highlighted the need for greater transparency and accountability in the use of online influence techniques by military alliances.
Key points
- NATO's online experiments involved creating fake accounts and buying engagement to shape narratives.
- The experiments revealed weaknesses in social media platforms' ability to detect manipulation.
- The investigation has sparked concerns about the potential for online manipulation and the role of military alliances in shaping public opinion.
