Bulgarian Cyberactivists, the BG Elves, Combat Disinformation and Animal Cruelty with OSINT Investigations
In the heart of Bulgaria, a dedicated collective of approximately 70 anonymous cybersecurity experts known as the BG Elves are waging a multifaceted digital war against disinformation and animal cruelty. Taking their name from benevolent creatures of Scandinavian folklore, these self-proclaimed “researchers,” not hackers, utilize open-source intelligence (OSINT) techniques to expose wrongdoings and hold perpetrators accountable. Their recent successes range from dismantling pro-Kremlin disinformation campaigns to uncovering a horrific animal abuse ring, demonstrating the potent impact of citizen-led digital activism.
Formed in 2023 as a response to the influx of pro-Kremlin disinformation flooding Bulgaria, the BG Elves initially focused on identifying and disrupting the key players behind these campaigns. Their methods involve meticulous digital investigations, employing techniques such as reverse image search, geolocation, and social engineering to track down sources and expose falsehoods. Petko Petkov, a software developer and the sole public face of the Elves, describes the group’s genesis as a small chat group that expanded rapidly, attracting volunteers with expertise in cybersecurity, social engineering, and database management. Their efforts are driven by a commitment to combating malicious online activity and promoting critical thinking among the public.
One of the Elves’ most impactful operations involved collaborating with an animal rights NGO to expose a shocking case of animal torture. Alerted to disturbing videos circulating on Telegram depicting a masked woman torturing animals, the Elves swiftly employed their OSINT skills to identify and locate the woman within hours. Further investigation, using reverse image search and geolocation, pinpointed the locations where the videos were filmed and identified her accomplice. The graphic content, which documented the torture and killing of cats, rabbits, and guinea pigs, ignited widespread public outrage and protests throughout Bulgaria. The Elves’ crucial role in providing evidence led to the arrest of the two individuals in March, marking a landmark case in Bulgaria where OSINT data was instrumental in securing a criminal conviction. This success underscores the growing power of citizen-led digital investigations and the potential for OSINT to be used in law enforcement.
Beyond their work in combating animal cruelty, the BG Elves remain steadfast in their fight against disinformation. Petkov, who relocated to Kyiv following the Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022, emphasizes the group’s proactive approach to combating false narratives. Recognizing the time lag between the dissemination of disinformation and its absorption by the public, the Elves aim to preemptively flood online spaces with humor and irony to counteract the spread of propaganda. They employ creative tactics such as meme campaigns, disseminating counter-narratives through profiles embedded within known disinformation networks. This proactive approach aims to inoculate the public against manipulative content by promoting critical thinking and skepticism.
The Elves’ dedication to exposing disinformation extends beyond Bulgaria’s borders. In March, they collaborated with a Romanian journalist to uncover a Russia-linked disinformation and propaganda network financed through online advertising. This transnational cooperation highlights the interconnected nature of disinformation campaigns and the need for international collaboration to combat them. The group’s efforts have not gone unnoticed, and their work has spurred concrete legislative action. Following the animal abuse case, the Bulgarian parliament proposed a bill increasing prison sentences for animal torture to up to 10 years, reflecting a growing recognition of the seriousness of such crimes.
Despite their successes, the BG Elves have also faced criticism and threats due to their provocative approach and alleged political biases. Their anonymity, while crucial for their safety, has also fueled accusations of lacking transparency and accountability. However, their impactful investigations and advocacy efforts have garnered them significant support and recognition. Petya Altimirska, president of the animal welfare association CAAI, who collaborated with the Elves on the animal abuse case, has praised their work and noted that they are already engaged in investigating new, even more serious cases of animal cruelty being reported.
The story of the BG Elves exemplifies the emerging power of citizen-led digital activism in the face of disinformation and other online harms. By harnessing the power of OSINT and employing creative tactics, these anonymous cyber sleuths are making a tangible difference in combating disinformation and protecting vulnerable animals. Their ongoing work underscores the potential for citizen-led initiatives to hold perpetrators accountable and drive positive change in the digital realm. As the battle against online misinformation and cruelty continues, the BG Elves stand as a testament to the impact of dedicated individuals wielding the power of open-source intelligence. Their efforts serve as a compelling example of how digital activism can transform online spaces, promoting truth, transparency, and justice, while also inspiring others to take action.
Their impact extends beyond individual investigations, contributing to broader societal change and legislative action. The collaborative nature of their work, engaging with NGOs and international partners, demonstrates the collective power of digital activism in addressing global challenges. While the Elves’ methods and anonymity have attracted criticism, their dedication to uncovering truth and advocating for positive change remains steadfast. Their ongoing investigations and commitment to exposing wrongdoings underscore their crucial role in the evolving landscape of digital activism. As online spaces become increasingly complex and contested, the BG Elves stand as a powerful example of how citizen-led initiatives can leverage technology for good, fighting for transparency, accountability, and justice.