Bulgarian Cyber Activists, the BG Elves, Combat Disinformation and Animal Abuse
In the digital realm, where misinformation and malicious activities often hold sway, a collective of anonymous cyber security experts known as the BG Elves has emerged as a formidable force for good. Inspired by the benevolent characters of Scandinavian mythology and driven by a desire to counter the nefarious influence of internet trolls, this group of approximately 70 individuals has dedicated itself to combating online threats, ranging from Russian disinformation campaigns to the horrifying exploitation of animals.
Initially established in 2023 as a response to the deluge of pro-Kremlin disinformation inundating Bulgaria, the BG Elves began by meticulously identifying and targeting the key players orchestrating these campaigns. What started as a small group of about ten individuals in a chat group quickly evolved into a larger, more sophisticated network, attracting volunteers with expertise in cyber security, social engineering, and databases. Their approach is rooted in thorough research and investigation, utilizing open-source intelligence (OSINT) techniques such as reverse image search and geolocation to uncover hidden truths and expose malicious actors. They emphatically distinguish themselves from hackers, preferring to be recognized as researchers driven by a commitment to activism and the dissemination of "counter-propaganda that makes people think."
One of their most recent and impactful operations involved collaborating with an animal rights NGO to uncover evidence that ultimately led to the arrest of two individuals in March 2025. Accused of selling videos online depicting the torture and death of hundreds of animals, these individuals were brought to justice thanks to the crucial role played by the BG Elves. Their OSINT investigation enabled them to track down a masked woman featured in the videos within hours of being alerted to their existence by the NGO. Furthermore, they successfully traced the locations where the horrifying footage of cats, rabbits, and guinea pigs being tortured was filmed by her accomplice. This case marked a significant milestone in Bulgaria as the first instance where a crime was solved using OSINT data, validating the effectiveness and impact of the Elves’ work.
The shocking nature of the videos, featuring the brutal torture and killing of innocent animals, sparked widespread protests across Bulgaria and prompted the government to propose emergency legislation to strengthen penalties for animal cruelty. Currently, nearly 300 people have been convicted of such offences in the last five years, but very few have received significant prison time. The proposed bill aims to increase the maximum prison sentence for animal torture to 10 years, reflecting a growing public demand for greater accountability and justice in cases of animal abuse.
The BG Elves’ dedication extends beyond animal welfare, encompassing the fight against disinformation and propaganda. Recognizing the insidious nature of online propaganda and its gradual permeation into public consciousness, the group employs a proactive strategy of "flooding the space with humor and irony" to preemptively counter false narratives before they take hold. Their innovative approach involves disseminating counter-propaganda through profiles embedded within major disinformation networks, effectively utilizing the same channels employed by their adversaries to reach a wider audience and challenge prevailing misinformation. A recent example of this strategy was their viral meme campaign targeting false claims circulating about Bulgaria’s accession to the eurozone.
Beyond their own initiatives, the BG Elves also collaborate with international partners to expose and disrupt disinformation networks. In March, they supported a Romanian journalist in an investigation that unveiled a Russia-linked disinformation and propaganda network funded through online advertising, demonstrating their commitment to tackling disinformation on a broader scale.
While lauded for their work in exposing animal abuse and combating disinformation, the BG Elves have not been immune to criticism. Their provocative approach and alleged political bias have drawn criticism and numerous threats. However, their dedication to exposing wrongdoing and promoting truth remains unwavering, as evidenced by their ongoing investigations into even more serious cases of animal abuse. The Elves are committed to utilizing their expertise to bring these cases to light, continuing their mission to make the digital world a safer and more informed space.
The BG Elves represent a unique form of digital activism, combining technical expertise with a passion for justice. Their work highlights the growing importance of OSINT investigations in uncovering hidden truths and holding perpetrators accountable. As they continue their fight against disinformation and animal abuse, they serve as an inspiration to others seeking to make a positive impact in the online world. Their success in the animal cruelty case has not only led to crucial arrests but has also raised awareness of the pervasiveness of animal abuse and the need for stronger legislation to protect vulnerable creatures. Furthermore, their innovative approach to countering disinformation offers a valuable model for challenging harmful narratives and fostering critical thinking in an increasingly complex digital landscape.
While the BG Elves operate in anonymity to protect themselves from potential threats, their impact is undeniable. Their work is a testament to the power of collective action and the potential for good that can arise from dedicated individuals utilizing their skills for the benefit of society. Their efforts serve as a powerful reminder that even in the face of daunting challenges, ordinary people can make a profound difference.