France Exposes Large Russian Disinformation Network Ahead of Key Elections

French authorities uncover a sophisticated network of 193 websites spreading pro-Russian propaganda, aiming to influence elections and undermine support for Ukraine.

French cybersecurity agency Viginum identifies a Moscow-based disinformation network named 'Portal Kombat' with 193 websites targeting Western Europe and the US.
The network aims to sway public opinion ahead of crucial elections in the EU, the UK, and the US, as well as disrupt major events like the Paris Olympics.
Content from the disinformation sites portrays the Russian invasion of Ukraine positively, while denigrating Ukraine and its leaders.
Despite extensive distribution efforts, the network has seen limited success, with an average traffic of 31,000 visits across five portals in November 2023.
European and international bodies, including the EU, NATO, and the UN, recognize disinformation as a significant threat to democracy in 2024.

RFI

Voice of America (VOA News)