Russia’s Disinformation Playbook: Five Tactics Targeting the US Election
The recent White House revelations about Russia’s attempts to interfere in the 2024 US presidential election have reignited concerns about foreign influence in democratic processes. These attempts are not isolated incidents but part of a broader pattern of disinformation tactics that Russia has honed over the years. Dr. Precious Chatterje-Doody, a Senior Lecturer in Politics and International Studies at the Open University, has extensively researched Russian disinformation and identifies five key methods employed by the Kremlin to manipulate information and influence international audiences. These tactics, detailed in her new book, “Russia, Disinformation and the Liberal Order,” provide a framework for understanding the current election interference scandal and the ongoing threat posed by Russian information manipulation.
One of the primary tactics employed by Russia is the use of local influencers to disseminate pro-Kremlin narratives. The recent US Department of Justice (DOJ) charges against RT employees for allegedly paying a Tennessee-based firm millions of dollars to produce pro-Russia content underscore this strategy. While the influencers involved deny knowledge of Russian funding, this practice aligns with RT’s long-standing engagement with right-wing media spaces, mimicking their style and providing platforms for personalities whose beliefs align with Russian interests. This tactic exploits the principle that repeated exposure to a claim, regardless of its veracity, increases its believability. By leveraging local influencers, Russia can effectively inject its propaganda into domestic discourse, subtly shaping public opinion and promoting narratives favorable to the Kremlin.
Another key aspect of Russia’s disinformation campaign is the creation of fake news outlets disguised as local news sources. These outlets target specific demographics by focusing on local concerns and controversies, while simultaneously amplifying core Russian talking points. This strategy builds upon past practices, such as the Kremlin-backed Internet Research Agency’s establishment of fake left-wing news websites. By masquerading as local sources, these websites gain credibility with target audiences, blurring the lines between genuine local news and fabricated information. This tactic effectively exploits existing societal divisions and amplifies anxieties, making it difficult for individuals to discern between genuine news and manipulative propaganda.
Further amplifying existing anxieties and divisions within society is another tool in the Russian disinformation arsenal. This tactic doesn’t introduce new divisive issues but rather capitalizes on pre-existing social anxieties and concerns. By selectively highlighting and manipulating information related to these issues, Russian media operations exacerbate these anxieties without offering any meaningful engagement or solutions. This manipulation fuels polarization and distrust, creating a fertile ground for the acceptance of further disinformation and conspiracy theories. As existing fears are inflamed, audiences are less likely to critically evaluate information that confirms their pre-conceived notions, making them more susceptible to manipulation.
Russia often employs a "flipped script" tactic, where it denies involvement in influence campaigns and accuses its accusers of the very actions it is accused of. This tactic deflects criticism and creates confusion by mirroring accusations back onto Western governments and institutions. The recurring theme of "Russophobia" is invoked to dismiss legitimate concerns as prejudice, while accusations of the US becoming a "totalitarian neoliberal dictatorship" further aim to undermine Western credibility. This strategy seeks to sow doubt and create a narrative where Russia is the victim of Western aggression, rather than the perpetrator of information warfare. By employing this tactic, Russia attempts to deflect attention from its own actions and erode public trust in Western institutions and governments.
Finally, the use of humor plays a significant role in Russia’s disinformation strategy. RT, in particular, has become adept at using satire and sarcasm to legitimize its actions and neutralize criticism. By portraying itself as a victim of Western scaremongering and embracing its "populist pariah" status, RT effectively deflects criticism and cultivates an image of irreverence. This use of humor not only dismisses accusations but also fosters a sense of camaraderie with certain audiences who view RT as an anti-establishment voice. This tactic allows RT to present its propaganda in a more palatable and engaging manner, disarming skepticism and increasing its reach.
The ongoing efforts by Russia to interfere in the US elections represent a complex and evolving threat to democratic processes. The five tactics outlined – leveraging local influencers, creating fake news outlets, amplifying societal anxieties, employing the "flipped script," and utilizing humor – provide a framework for understanding the multifaceted nature of Russian disinformation. Recognizing and understanding these tactics is crucial for combating information manipulation and safeguarding the integrity of democratic institutions. As Russia continues to refine its disinformation strategies, it is imperative for individuals, media organizations, and government agencies to remain vigilant and develop effective countermeasures to mitigate the impact of these malicious information operations. The future of democratic societies may well depend on the ability to identify, expose, and neutralize these sophisticated tactics of information warfare.