Foreign Information Manipulation and Interference: Case Studies From the ATHENA Project

Russia, China, Iran, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, North Korea and India are engaged in foreign information manipulation and interference (FIMI) in the democratic practices of countries in Europe, America, Africa and Asia. The Ukraine, in particular, has borne the brunt of information warfare perpetrated by Russia. This book presents 32 case studies of FIMI attacks, who perpetrated them, who they were targeting, the channels that carried their disinformation, the effectiveness of their campaigns and the countermeasures employed against them. In addition, it includes a synthesis of 20 interviews with experts in disinformation and concludes with findings and recommendations. Uniquely, the book includes a detailed analysis of the tactics, techniques and procedures (TTPs) used by attackers and, in particular, deepfake technologies for text, image, audio and video deceptions. The case studies highlight the proliferation and inventiveness of different TTPs used by FIMI attackers to evade detection and continue to spread their malign messages. Key features: Offers the first book on foreign information manipulation and interference Examines numerous case studies of FIMI attacks, the perpetrators as well as targets Proposes a structured way of conducting FIMI case studies Analyses the TTPs used to sow disinformation and create divisions in society The authors commend this book to FIMI researchers, policymakers, legislators, academics, civil society organisations and fact checkers. The hope is that it will raise stakeholder and public awareness about the range of tactics that attackers employ and what measures can be effective in countering this insidious and growing threat to democracies. Dr David Wright is a Director and Chief Research Officer of Trilateral Research, a company he co-founded that provides responsible AI in the form of software, services and research. He coordinates the EU-funded ATHENA project (November 2023-October 2026).