How are Mexican cartels using social media for propaganda?

Mexican cartels utilize social media for propaganda, including slandering rivals, publicizing their own community efforts, and spreading fake news, often amplified by AI and social media personalities.

What role does AI play in cartel propaganda?

The emergence of AI has enabled cartels to produce more creative and sophisticated fake news propaganda, moving beyond older methods like recycled videos.

Why is it difficult to report on cartel violence in Mexico?

Misinformation campaigns, coupled with the inherent violence in certain regions, make it challenging for journalists to access areas and distinguish fact from fiction.

Home / Crime and Justice / Cartels Wage War on Truth Online

Cartels Wage War on Truth Online

25 Feb

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Summary

Cartels use social media for propaganda and to project power.
AI enables cartels to produce more sophisticated fake news.
Misinformation campaigns make reporting on violence difficult.

Following the recent killing of cartel leader El Mencho, Mexican organized crime groups launched a significant propaganda campaign across social media. Loyalists retaliated with real-world violence, including roadblocks and arsons, but online, fabricated accounts of spectacular events, such as an airport takeover and widespread destruction, circulated rapidly.

Researchers noted that these false reports, amplified by AI and 'narco influencers,' aimed to exaggerate the cartel's reach and the scale of violence. This strategy seeks to project an image of overwhelming power and undermine the government's authority.

Mexican authorities are actively working to identify and refute the fake news. Security Secretary Omar Garcia Harfuch acknowledged identifying "various accounts" linked to organized crime. President Claudia Sheinbaum stated that efforts are underway to counter the "many, many fake news stories."

This sophisticated use of social media, evolving from older tactics like recycled videos, presents a new challenge. It can make it difficult for journalists to verify information and report accurately, particularly in areas already affected by violence.

Disclaimer: This story has been auto-aggregated and auto-summarised by a computer program. This story has not been edited or created by the Feedzop team.