2024-12-28 –, Stage YELL
Language: English
What began as a routine project in a psychology practicum quickly evolved into a semester of unexpected discoveries. A small research team set out to examine disinformation in German Telegram channels, intending to observe these groups’ activities leading up to the European elections. However, the findings went far beyond initial expectations: the investigators encountered a wide-ranging mix of COVID-19 conspiracy theorists, far-right groups, and farmer protestors—collectives that initially appeared benign but soon emerged as part of a more coordinated disinformation strategy.
A turning point occurred upon discovering a report by an Austrian broadcaster, which led the researchers deeper into Russian disinformation networks than they ever anticipated. The ensuing investigation revealed what felt like the plot of a spy thriller despite the actors unapologetically operating out in the open.
This talk traces the path from initial curiosity to in-depth analysis, highlighting a few striking discoveries made along the way and contextualizing them using broader theories of swarm behavior. It also demonstrates how even minimal investigative steps can peel back the layers of so-called “coincidental connections,” offering a revealing glimpse into the methods and reach of modern-day disinformation campaigns.
This presentation details how a modest university research project evolved into an in-depth exploration of disinformation networks. Originally aiming to analyze German Telegram channels in the run-up to the European elections, the project uncovered much more than the usual COVID-19 conspiracy groups. Students found themselves navigating a maze of far-right activists, anti-“green agenda” groups, and farmers’ protests—all connected, surprisingly, to a sophisticated infrastructure linked to Russian state influence.
A key turning point occurred when the team encountered a video report from an Austrian broadcaster. What began as a typical fringe conspiracy video led them into a web involving former RTde personnel, social media influencers, several politicians, and connections that spanned from Austria to occupied Crimea. Thanks to lax digital security practices, they inadvertently revealed much of this network’s activity.
The project started with a simple intent: gather data on disinformation channels, focusing on topics like pandemic denial and conspiracy-theory communities. However, these initial findings quickly expanded beyond COVID-related content, uncovering ties to far-right and nationalist groups.
Ex-RTde Executives and Influencers: Former employees of Russia Today’s German branch appeared to be mingling with domestic activists.
Public Figures and Politicians: Multiple officials, including politicians from a well-known right-wing party, surfaced in the channels and in places where you wouldn't expect them.
Disinformation Ecosystem: Even small-scale or grassroots-looking groups can be part of larger, international efforts.
By studying these networks, researchers, students, and the public alike gain a clearer understanding of how seemingly trivial online chatter might connect to more structured, and sometimes state-sponsored initiatives. Recognizing these links is a step toward developing resilience against disinformation.
Conclusion:
This session offers an inside look at how a straightforward research assignment turned into a deep dive into organized disinformation. From conspiratorial Telegram groups to Russian state-linked activities, the project highlights just how interconnected (and at times comically careless) these networks can be. Attendees will come away with practical examples of how OSINT techniques can be employed to unveil hidden connections and a grasp of why critical thinking remains paramount in the digital age. Finally, we’ll discuss the role of the Meliorator system, share what the data revealed, and explain its significance in this sprawling puzzle of modern propaganda.
Update after the conference: Due to new information turning up during the first day of the conference, I decided to rewrite the lecture script on the same day, trying to make it fit for recording and also somehow add the new information, which didn't work out well. The lecture turned out a bit chaotic, and while several people reached out and kept in touch, I'm sure that everyone felt my frustration, I thank everyone for being a great audience and sticking it out and asking so many questions at the end. Either way, I hope you took away something useful, I sure learned my humble lesson.
Many people asked me to send them the research publication and the slides. Feel free to reach out 38c3.echo721 at passmail.com to get in touch.
Researcher and lecturer in Berlin.