In a shocking revelation, a recent investigation has uncovered a network of fake accounts on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter) that have been using the images of European influencers to promote pro-Trump propaganda. The Center for Information Resilience (CIR) reported that these accounts, including one operated by a user named Luna, have falsely claimed to be fervent supporters of Donald Trump while actually misusing the identities of real individuals. This coordinated effort comes at a critical time as the United States gears up for the 2024 presidential election, raising concerns about the spread of misinformation and the integrity of online political discourse.
The investigation revealed that 16 accounts were identified as using stolen images of influencers from countries such as Germany, Denmark, and the Netherlands. These accounts have gained thousands of followers by posting manipulated photos with pro-Trump slogans, often echoing similar messages and engaging in inauthentic behavior. The real influencers, such as Debbie Nederlof and Demi Maric, have expressed anger and frustration over the unauthorized use of their images, emphasizing that they have no political ties to the United States or Trump.
Experts have suggested that this could be just the beginning of a larger disinformation campaign, potentially linked to state actors. The systematic approach of these accounts, their rapid follower growth, and the use of attractive female images point to a coordinated effort to influence voters ahead of the upcoming elections. With Elon Musk's acquisition of X and the subsequent dismantling of measures to combat misinformation, the platform's role in shaping political narratives has come under scrutiny. As the situation develops, the implications for online identity theft and political manipulation remain significant.
