A Russia-based network of fake news websites, powered by AI, is increasingly targeting the US election with viral disinformation stories aimed at sowing distrust among American voters.
Key figures and tactics: The network is run out of Moscow by John Mark Dougan, a former US police officer, and uses sophisticated AI to generate fake articles and videos masquerading as legitimate local US news:
Election interference ramping up: As the 2024 election approaches, the network has shifted its focus from the Ukraine war to increasingly target hot-button US political issues and candidates:
Motivation and funding unclear: Dougan, who fled an FBI raid to live in Moscow, claims the fake news is a “game” and “payback” against US authorities, but denies being paid by Russia despite his appearances on state media:
Analyzing deeper: The evolution of this Russian disinformation network from planting fakes about Ukraine to directly targeting the US election with AI-generated content highlights the growing challenge democracies face in combating foreign interference. While some of the bot-like websites and crude fakes are easy to spot, the increasing use of AI to mimic authentic local news and launder disinformation through domestic influencers makes it harder for voters, platforms and authorities to separate fact from fiction in the heat of a campaign. As calls grow for actions to secure the integrity of the 2024 election, it remains to be seen if the US has learned the lessons of the past in fighting the new generation of AI-powered propaganda that is already at its doorstep.