Singapore’s government has instructed internet service providers to block access to websites deemed “inauthentic,” which are believed to be part of hostile information campaigns potentially targeting Singapore.
The government’s action is intended to combat the distribution of false information and disinformation on the Internet by using such strategies.
Recent reports have revealed a new tactic threat actors employ to evade detection and spread disinformation by creating networks of seemingly independent news websites from various regions. Still, in reality, these websites are centralized under a single entity.
This technique has been exploited in foreign influence campaigns, as evidenced by investigations by Mandiant, Citizen Lab, and South Korea’s National Intelligence Service.
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Singapore is not immune to this threat, as foreign actors could potentially leverage such websites to launch hostile information campaigns.
In response, the MHA and IMDA have instructed Internet service providers to block access to ten identified inauthentic websites within Singapore.
Inauthentic websites, often disguised as harmless news outlets, pose a significant threat because they can subtly propagate disinformation.
By strategically blending non-controversial content with misleading information, these websites exploit the illusory truth effect, making it easier for users to accept false narratives.
The casual nature of their content allows them to evade scrutiny and build a network of seemingly corroborating sources, further deceiving unsuspecting audiences.
While individuals may be cautious of overtly biased websites, their inauthentic nature makes them more insidious. These sites can subtly undermine public trust and disseminate harmful misinformation.
The RSIS’ CENS team identified dozens of inauthentic websites operating within various networks that falsely claimed to be from Singapore and other Asian countries but were linked to a Shanghai public relations company known for foreign influence campaigns.
Some sites were also connected to a news distribution company with strategic links to inauthentic news sites used by foreign actors. These networks were used to artificially boost commercial press releases, creating a false sense of global reach.
Foreign actors could spread propaganda under the guise of legitimate news outlets because these networks were inauthentic.
The government has taken proactive measures to counter the threat of foreign influence campaigns through inauthentic websites.
By issuing directions to internet service providers to block access to ten such sites, the government aims to prevent their use in launching hostile information campaigns targeting Singaporeans.
The action aligns with previous reports of foreign interference operations using similar tactics and reflects the government’s commitment to protecting national security.
To further mitigate the risk, public awareness campaigns and continued efforts to promote digital and information literacy are essential to empower citizens to discern between legitimate and inauthentic online content.
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