In the era of hybrid threats, there have been profound changes to the security environment, and these reflect to the information domain. Disinformation’s structure is rapidly developing and becoming ever more effective. Instead of looking at disinformation as Disinformation 2.0 or Disinformation 3.0, 4.0… changes in disinformation should be analysed as Disinformation h.0.
The report examines four contemporary trends of change in the information environment which affect disinformation. The trends identified are 1) Fragmentation of the concept of truth, especially as it relates to social trends and new ways in which information flows; 2) Comprehensive changes in the media as an industry; 3) The increasing hegemony of private media platforms that now compete with outlets, which are still referred to as the traditional media; and 4) New technologies that give rise to new tools for interference and influence.
From the hybrid threat perspective, Disinformation h.0 depicts the confusing mix of strategic messages from state and non-state actors who consider the democratic state system to pose a threat to them. It is combined with advertising from commercial entities, as well as mis- and disinformation disseminated by aware or unaware social media users. In this environment, the conflicts of popularity and perceptions are beginning to merge with real-life conflicts and divisiveness, leading to increased online and offline social, economic and ideological polarization. Thus, it is of utmost importance, that we follow the changes in the information environment and understand the structures of Disinformation h.0.
The complete Trend Report can be accessed HERE.
Trend Report
An outcome of the meetings of Hybrid CoE expert pools, composed of top-ranking experts from different Hybrid CoE Participating States. Highlights trends and theme clusters related to hybrid threats, provides multiple perspectives on current security challenges and generates academic discourse on the topic. Aims to distinguish between what constitutes a threat, what appears to be a threat but is not necessarily one, and what has the potential to become one.
