INTERNET RESEARCH AGENCY (IRA, RUSSIA)
Internet Research Agency: Russian Troll Farm's Election Interference
Summary
The Internet Research Agency (IRA) is a Russian organization known for its online propaganda and influence operations. It gained notoriety for its role in the 2016 U.S. presidential election, where it aimed to influence the outcome and sow discord
Historical Information
Founded: The IRA was established in 2013.
Headquarters: Based in St. Petersburg, Russia.
Funding: Linked to Yevgeny Prigozhin, a Russian oligarch close to Vladimir Putin
Activities and Techniques
Social Media Campaigns: The IRA created fake accounts and pages on platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to spread misinformation and influence public opinion.
Disinformation: It spread false information on various topics, including politics, social issues, and current events.
Targeting: The IRA targeted specific groups, such as African Americans, LGBTQ+ individuals, and political conservatives, to amplify divisions
(BBC)
Notable Incidents
2016 U.S. Presidential Election: The IRA supported Donald Trump and criticized Hillary Clinton. It organized rallies, created fake social media accounts, and bought ads to influence voters
Mueller Investigation: In 2018, Special Counsel Robert Mueller indicted 13 Russian nationals and three organizations, including the IRA, for interfering in the 2016 election
(Justice)
Known Individuals
Yevgeny Prigozhin: Funded the IRA through his companies.
Dzheykhun Nasimi Ogly Aslanov: Headed the IRA's American Department.
Maria Anatolyevna Bovda: Former head of the American Department.
Elena Khusyaynova: Managed the IRA's budget and was charged with interference in U.S. elections
Implications
Geopolitical Tensions: The IRA's activities have increased tensions between Russia and Western countries.
Social Media Policies: The IRA's actions have led to changes in social media policies to combat misinformation
(BBC)
References
Internet Research Agency: Internet Research Agency
Mueller Report: Mueller Report
Yevgeny Prigozhin: Yevgeny Prigozhin
