PHILADELPHIA, PA — In a decisive move against foreign interference, U.S. Attorney Jacqueline C. Romero announced the seizure this week of 32 internet domains linked to Russian government-directed influence operations. These domains were allegedly used to conduct malign activities, including spreading propaganda and attempting to influence elections, in violation of U.S. money laundering and criminal trademark laws.
The FBI’s affidavit, unsealed in the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, outlines the operations directed by the Russian Presidential Administration, particularly under Sergei Vladilenovich Kiriyenko. The Russian companies involved, including Social Design Agency (SDA) and Structura National Technology, are accused of deploying these domains to disseminate misinformation and sway public opinion. The campaign, colloquially known as “Doppelganger,” aimed to reduce global support for Ukraine, bolster pro-Russian policies, and influence the 2024 U.S. Presidential Election.
By using “cybersquatted” domains, the perpetrators mimicked legitimate news organizations to distribute Russian propaganda. Examples include registering domains like washingtonpost.pm to mimic washingtonpost.com, misleading audiences into believing they were accessing credible sources. Beyond cybersquatting, the campaign also created unique media brands and utilized influencers, social media ads, and falsified profiles to amplify their reach.
U.S. Attorney Romero emphasized the critical nature of protecting democratic processes from foreign influence. “Protecting our democratic processes from foreign malign influence is paramount to ensure enduring public trust,” she stated. The disruption of these domains serves as a firm warning against attempts to manipulate U.S. elections.
Wayne A. Jacobs, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Philadelphia, reinforced this stance by highlighting the commitment to safeguarding electoral integrity. “Today’s disruption sends a clear message to our adversaries: we will not tolerate foreign efforts to influence our elections,” Jacobs declared.
The affidavit reveals strategic documents obtained during the investigation, shedding light on the perpetrators’ plans. Notable projects targeted the U.S., including the “Good Old USA Project” and the “U.S. Social Media Influencers Network Project.” This influence campaign extended beyond American borders, targeting countries like Germany, Mexico, and Israel to further Russian interests.
The seizure of these domains underscores the violation of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) as they operated under sanctioned individuals like Kiriyenko. Payments supporting Doppelganger’s infrastructure breached federal money laundering laws, while the use of cybersquatted domains violated trademark laws by impersonating registered trademarks.
The investigation, led by the FBI Philadelphia Field Office, is supported by multiple federal entities, including the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section, and the Criminal Division’s Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section.
As part of a coordinated effort to dismantle these operations, the U.S. Treasury Department has sanctioned 10 individuals and two entities involved in the Doppelganger campaign. This action follows earlier designations by the Treasury in March, marking a continued response to combat Russian malign influence targeting the 2024 U.S. presidential election.
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