Pro-Russian Disinformation Campaign Targets Bluesky with AI-Powered Deepfakes

The 'Matryoshka' operation resurfaces on Bluesky, leveraging AI to impersonate universities and amplify propaganda.

Bluesky, a growing social media platform with over 26 million users, is facing a pro-Russian disinformation campaign similar to the 'Matryoshka' effort previously seen on X (formerly Twitter).
The operation employs AI-generated content, including deepfake videos impersonating university professors and institutions, to lend credibility to its messaging.
Key objectives include promoting a positive image of Russia, criticizing Western support for Ukraine, and targeting figures like French President Emmanuel Macron.
Investigations by groups like @antibot4navalny and Bellingcat have identified dozens of posts and accounts linked to the campaign, many of which have been removed after being flagged.
Experts note that while Bluesky has been reactive in addressing disinformation, it has yet to demonstrate proactive measures to prevent the spread of such operations.