A clandestine Russian-backed network is actively working to interfere with democratic elections across Europe, according to a new BBC investigation. By employing an undercover reporter, the investigation has uncovered a sophisticated operation that aims to sow discord and undermine pro-European governments.
The network, which operates through messaging apps like Telegram, recruits individuals to spread pro-Russian propaganda and fabricated news stories. In Moldova, ahead of the country’s parliamentary elections on September 28th, participants were instructed to create and disseminate social media content that discredited the ruling pro-EU party. This included baseless allegations about election fraud, the government’s stance on LGBT issues, and even child trafficking, all designed to erode public trust.
The operation appears to be closely linked to Moldovan oligarch Ilan Shor, who has been sanctioned by both the US and the UK for his alleged involvement in Russian malign influence operations. Shor, now a fugitive in Moscow, has also been connected to the non-profit organisation Evrazia, which has faced sanctions from multiple countries for alleged bribery aimed at influencing Moldovan citizens’ votes on EU membership.
Evidence gathered suggests the network is funded by Russian entities, with one coordinator overheard discussing receiving funds from Moscow and using a sanctioned Russian state-owned bank, Promsvyazbank (PSB), for payments. Participants were reportedly trained to use AI tools like ChatGPT to generate content, with instructions to make it appear organic and engaging to maximize reach.
The investigation also revealed the network’s efforts to conduct illegal, unofficial polling. Recruits were offered payment to interview Moldovan citizens about their political preferences, with instructions to subtly influence responses and secretly record those who supported the pro-Russian opposition. The stated aim was to use these manipulated results to cast doubt on the legitimacy of the election outcome, particularly if the ruling party were to win.
The BBC’s undercover work, conducted with ethical considerations to ensure factual reporting, provided a stark look into the tactics of modern disinformation campaigns. Social media platforms, particularly TikTok, have become key battlegrounds, with the network’s content reaching millions of views and likes, significantly impacting public discourse in Moldova.
In response to the BBC’s findings, TikTok stated it is taking measures to counter deceptive behavior, while Meta (Facebook’s parent company) and the Russian embassy in the UK did not provide comments. The Russian embassy has denied involvement in disinformation and electoral interference, instead accusing the EU of meddling in Moldova’s elections.
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