Melanie Smith, Director of Research at ISD US, spoke to The New York Times about foreign countries using disinformation to sway public opinion on the US Presidential election in their favor. Melanie explained that the disinformation used by countries like Russia, China and Iran has become far more targeted toward specific groups of people. “When disinformation is custom-built for a specific audience by preying on their interests or opinions, it becomes more effective,” she said.

This marks a newer development for the 2024 elections, Melanie noted, saying, “In previous elections, we were trying to determine what the big false narrative was going to be. This time, it is subtle polarized messaging that stokes the tension.”

Read the full article on The New York Times’ website.