Social Media as a Disinformation Attack Surface during Crises and Disasters

• In Event: Information and Democracy

Abstract

Governments and non-governmental agencies (NGO’s) worldwide rely on social media to disseminate key information and advisories during crises and disasters, as well as to obtain information posted by victims, witnesses, and other members of the public. However, the use of social media during critical events is threatened by the proliferation of false and misleading content, which at best complicates crisis and disaster response, and at worst may exacerbate the situation, lead to increased casualties, and leave societies more vulnerable in the face of future events. This article presents an analytical framework examining social media as a disinformation attack surface during crises and disasters, with both state- and non-state actors considered as agents of disinformation. Drawing on a series of case studies, we highlight key vulnerabilities, tactics, methods, targets, and impacts, and provide recommendations for bolstering crisis and disaster response and recovery by accounting for targeted disinformation attacks in public communication planning and coordination.

Author

• Caroline Orr Bueno, University of Maryland