Justice Department Disrupts Russian-Sponsored Influence Operation Targeting U.S. Audiences

The Justice Department has announced a significant breakthrough in its ongoing efforts to combat foreign interference. It has announced the seizure of 32 internet domains linked to a covert Russian influence operation. The operation, “Doppelganger,” was designed to manipulate audiences in the United States and influence the outcome of the 2024 U.S. Presidential Election.

Russian Influence Network Unveiled
Russian companies allegedly operated the seized domains under the direction of the Russian Presidential Administration. These companies—Social Design Agency (SDA), Structura National Technology (Structura), and ANO Dialog—are accused of using AI-generated content, influencers, and paid social media advertisements to drive internet traffic to these domains—the goal: spreading Russian government propaganda, reducing international support for Ukraine, and promoting pro-Russian policies.

Attorney General Merrick B. Garland stressed the gravity of the situation, stating, “The Justice Department is seizing 32 internet domains that Russian actors have used to interfere in our elections. These sites were filled with propaganda to influence the 2024 U.S. Presidential Election.”

Treasury Department Joins Forces
In coordination with the Justice Department, the U.S. Treasury Department imposed sanctions on 10 individuals and two entities involved in the Doppelganger operation. This is part of a broader effort to curb Russia’s malign activities targeting the 2024 U.S. elections.

Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco underscored the strategic nature of the campaign: “At Putin’s direction, Russian companies covertly promoted AI-generated false narratives on social media, targeting specific American demographics.”

AI, Influencers, and Social Media: Tools of Disinformation
The operation relied heavily on cutting-edge tools, including AI-generated content, to bolster its influence. The FBI’s investigation revealed that these domains were designed to mimic legitimate news organizations, tricking Americans into consuming Russian propaganda.

FBI Director Christopher Wray warned, “The FBI will continue working with partners to expose and shut down these covert influence campaigns.”

The Justice Department’s Assistant Attorney General Matthew G. Olsen emphasized the growing threat: “This is our third disruption of Russian influence operations in two months. To Russia, and any other government seeking to stoke discord in our society: we will spare no effort to disrupt this malign activity.”

Global Reach of Doppelganger Campaign
Doppelganger’s operations extended beyond the U.S., targeting audiences in Germany, Mexico, and Israel. These campaigns sought to undermine the United States’ relationships with its allies, amplifying Russian objectives.

The seized domains, including cybersquatting sites mimicking legitimate news outlets, were a key part of Russia’s strategy. Using fabricated influencers and AI-generated profiles, they promoted propaganda to sway public opinion and disrupt the democratic process.

Legal Ramifications
The operation violated multiple U.S. laws, including federal money laundering and trademark statutes. The involvement of sanctioned individuals and organizations, such as Sergei Kiriyenko, SDA, and Structura, further implicates these actors in illegal activities under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA).

The FBI Philadelphia Field Office leads the investigation, with support from the National Security Division and other key agencies.

Protecting Democracy
As foreign threats to democratic elections continue to evolve, the Justice Department and its partners are stepping up efforts to safeguard the integrity of the U.S. electoral process. The recent seizure of the Doppelganger domains sends a clear message: foreign interference in U.S. elections will not be tolerated.

This case is a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges posed by disinformation and foreign malign influence in the digital age and the need for vigilance in protecting democratic institutions.