Russian Disinformation Campaigns in the United States and Possible Countermeasures
Abstract
This thesis investigates the complex realm of Russian disinformation, including its historical roots, its dissemination methods, and its possible countermeasures. Historical instances of disinformation, ranging from the Cold War era to contemporary times, suggest consistent themes, motives, and strategies employed by Russia in shaping narratives, manipulating public opinion, and undermining democratic processes. By examining social media, state-controlled media outlets, propaganda, and cyberoperations, we see an intricate web of techniques employed to disseminate false information, amplify divisive narratives, and exploit existing vulnerabilities in target societies. This thesis also examines possible countermeasures to combat Russian disinformation, and by drawing upon case studies and best practices. It analyzes the effectiveness of strategies such as fact checking, media-literacy programs, and international sharing of information. We also need to bolster cybersecurity, promote transparency in social media platforms, and develop comprehensive legislation to address the multifaceted nature of the disinformation challenge.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 2023
- Accession Number
- AD1213704
Entities
People
- Michael R. Williams
Organizations
- Naval Postgraduate School