Story perspectives

Disinformation Network Undermines Scottish Independence Amid Iran Blackout

8/24/2025

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Summary

Story summary

A disinformation network targeted Scottish independence discussions during Iran's blackout, with 26% of accounts identified as fake, amassing over 224 million views.
The account @fiona175161, created in May 2024, utilized AI-generated imagery and pro-independence slogans.
After a 16-day silence, the account shifted to pro-Iran narratives before returning to Scottish independence themes.
This infiltration undermines genuine activism by distorting public sentiment and eroding trust in democracy.
Researchers label this tactic "narrative laundering," employing synthetic identities to promote foreign agendas.

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Story summary

A disinformation network targeted Scottish independence discussions during Iran's blackout, with 26% of accounts identified as fake, amassing over 224 million views.
The account @fiona175161, created in May 2024, utilized AI-generated imagery and pro-independence slogans.
After a 16-day silence, the account shifted to pro-Iran narratives before returning to Scottish independence themes.
This infiltration undermines genuine activism by distorting public sentiment and eroding trust in democracy.
Researchers label this tactic "narrative laundering," employing synthetic identities to promote foreign agendas.