DOJ seizes “bot farm” operated by the Russian government
What did the DOJ seize related to the Russian bot farm?
The DOJ seized two domain names and over 900 social media accounts associated with an "AI-enhanced" Russian bot farm. This bot farm was allegedly designed to spread disinformation regarding the Russia-Ukraine war and other geopolitical narratives favorable to the Russian government. The operation was reportedly devised by a deputy editor at Kremlin-owned RT, formerly Russia Today.
Who allegedly operated the Russian bot farm?
The Russian bot farm was allegedly operated by an employee of RT, a Russian state-owned media outlet. The operation was part of a Kremlin-approved and funded project run by a Russian intelligence officer5. The bot farm used AI to create social media profiles impersonating Americans and spread pro-Kremlin narratives5.
What was the bot farm's purpose according to the DOJ?
The bot farm's purpose, according to the DOJ, was to advance the mission of the FSB and the Russian government, including spreading disinformation through the social media accounts created by the bot farm3. The goal was not to expand RT's audience but to spread disinformation on behalf of the Russian government using RT's bot network.