Russia's Online Campaigns Targeting US Election Are Underway: Microsoft

Microsoft has observed that Russia’s online political campaigns have grown significantly over the past 45 days. The company claimed the country exceeded its move in the wake of the upcoming US presidential election, but at a slower pace compared to its previous political disruptions.

Microsoft’s report found some Russia-linked accounts are disseminating controversial content targeting the US people, which includes criticising America’s support to Ukraine in its ongoing war with Russia. 

Currently, Russia is not actively spreading divisive content among US voters. Still, there is a possibility of ramping its efforts shortly, given the history of interference in US elections, the tech giant report added.

Microsoft has identified nearly 70 Russian-affiliated activities on traditional and social media platforms, which are regarding Ukraine and has been fuelling over the last two months with both direct and indirect political messages to influence viewers.

According to a media report, one of the most active Russian campaigns is associated with the Presidential Administration of Russia. Another campaign focuses on spreading disinformation online in multiple languages, often beginning with a supposed whistleblower or citizen journalist sharing content on a video platform. This content is later disseminated through a series of websites such as DC Weekly, Miami Chronical and The Intel Drop.

Microsoft stated that while Russia is busy disrupting the US political agenda or strategy, the Americans remain oblivious to its motives and are unknowingly sharing the false information online without knowing it original source.