Meta Platforms, the parent company of Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, revealed on Nov 30 that it dismantled numerous fake accounts associated with a China-based influence campaign targeting the 2024 US presidential elections. The campaign also extended its reach to India and Tibet, according to reports from bbc.com on Dec 1.

The company identified two distinct networks—one based in China focusing on India and Tibet, and another in Russia primarily posting in English about the invasion of Ukraine. The accounts exhibited a deceptive tactic by swiftly changing from American-sounding profiles to ones suggesting residence in India, subsequently spreading pro-Chinese content about Tibet and India, including criticism of the Dalai Lama.

While Meta has not publicly linked the Chinese networks to the government, it determined their origin in China. The content disseminated aligns with broader Chinese government propaganda and disinformation efforts. Ben Nimmo, leading investigations on Meta's platforms, highlighted diverse actors contributing to China-origin influence operations.

Meta's quarterly threat report released on Nov 30 outlined the takedowns, emphasizing the proactive removal before gaining traction. The company warned of foreign threat actors attempting to influence audiences leading up to the 2024 US presidential election.

The accounts exhibited sophistication, utilizing fake photos, names, and locations to mimic ordinary American Facebook users, expressing opinions on political issues. Despite sharing accurate news stories, the intent was to manipulate public opinion, foster division, and amplify certain viewpoints.

Interestingly, the accounts engaged in mutual interaction, sharing and liking each other's posts, with some content directly sourced from X (formerly Twitter), as reported by bbc.com.