US Targets Russian Election Influence Operation With Charges, Sanctions, Domain Seizures

US Targets Russian Election Influence Operation With Charges, Sanctions, Domain Seizures

September 5, 2024 at 05:36AM

The US government disclosed disrupting a significant Russian influence campaign dubbed Doppelganger, violating laws and targeting the 2024 US presidential election. It aimed to boost Donald Trump, sow division within the US, reduce support for Ukraine, and promote pro-Russian interests. Charges were filed against two Russian nationals, and sanctions imposed on individuals and entities involved.

From the meeting notes, it is clear that the US government has announced the disruption of a major Russian influence campaign known as Doppelganger. The campaign utilized tactics such as the creation of cybersquatted domains, AI-generated content, influencer accounts, and social media platforms. The operation aimed to spread misinformation in an effort to influence the 2024 US presidential election, with evidence suggesting an attempt to boost Donald Trump. Additionally, the campaign sought to sow division within the US, reduce international support for Ukraine, and promote pro-Russian interests and policies.

To combat this influence campaign, the Justice Department has seized 32 domains and announced charges against two Russian nationals, Kostiantyn Kalashnikov and Elena Afanasyeva, who were employees of the state-controlled media outlet RT. The Treasury Department has also implemented sanctions against individuals and entities believed to be involved in Russia’s malign influence operations.

In response to these developments, the Department of State has announced visa restrictions against individuals involved in the campaign and is offering a reward for information on members of a group associated with the Russian government, RaHDit. Additionally, the Federal Cybersecurity Agency has launched a program to boost support for state and local election offices, while US officials have released guidance on securing election infrastructure.

These actions demonstrate a comprehensive effort by the US government to address and counteract foreign influence campaigns targeting US elections and political stability.

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