Watchdog Says Israeli Firm BlackCore Influenced Elections Across Multiple Countries
France’s digital interference watchdog Viginum says it has linked Israeli company BlackCore to coordinated online influence and propaganda campaigns across multiple countries, including in Europe, Africa, and the United States.
In a report published on Sunday, Viginum alleged that operations connected to BlackCore targeted elections and political figures in France, Scotland, Angola, Togo, and New York City.
The report said accounts linked to the company focused on public figures such as John Swinney, who described Gaza as a “man-made humanitarian catastrophe,” and also targeted members of the French left-wing party La France Insoumise. Methods allegedly included automated accounts, leaked data, and the spread of fabricated claims.
Viginum also said similar tactics appeared to have been used during municipal elections in New York City, though it noted that the exact sponsors and full scope of the operations remain unclear.
