Russia is engaged in a disinformation campaign targeting the International Olympic Committee and the upcoming Paris Olympics, leveraging fake videos, fictitious news stories, and AI-generated impersonations. The Microsoft Threat Analysis Center reported that two Russian cyber-actor groups, Storm-1679 and Doppelganger, have intensified their operations in the past year to undermine the reputation of the Games. They have released a fake documentary titled “Olympics Has Fallen” featuring AI-generated audio impersonating Tom Cruise to disparage the IOC and erode global public support for the event. Additionally, Doppelganger has spread anti-Olympic messaging through disinformation websites and forged content posing as French news outlets to smear President Macron.
The disinformation campaign includes the circulation of fake images of graffiti threatening a repeat of the 1972 Munich Olympic massacre of Israeli athletes. Microsoft anticipates that as the July 26 Opening Ceremony approaches, the Russian disinformation efforts will intensify across more languages and media formats, potentially even leading to real-world provocations near Olympic venues to create chaos and disrupt the event. This campaign was not unexpected, as President Macron had previously accused Russia of targeting the Paris Olympics with disinformation. The Kremlin has denied these allegations, dismissing them as “absolute slander” with no basis in reality, according to Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov.
Russia has a long history of targeting the Olympic Games with disinformation campaigns, and the Microsoft Threat Analysis Center has observed these tactics evolving with the use of artificial intelligence, which could further intensify as the 2024 Paris Olympics draw closer. The report highlighted the activities of Storm-1679 and Doppelganger, who have been actively spreading fake news stories, videos, and press statements to falsely claim that fears of terrorism have caused a wave of ticket cancellations and property insurance purchases among Parisians. These groups have also impersonated French news outlets and spread misinformation to tarnish the reputation of President Macron and undermine public confidence in the Olympics.
The Russian disinformation campaign poses a significant threat to the reputation and security of the Paris Olympics, as it has the potential to influence public opinion, incite violence, and create chaos during the event. Microsoft’s warning that these campaigns could lead to real-world provocations near Olympic venues underscores the importance of addressing and countering the spread of misinformation. President Macron’s acknowledgment of Russia’s targeting of the Paris Olympics and the Kremlin’s denial of these allegations reflect the ongoing geopolitical tensions surrounding major international events like the Olympics. As the international community prepares for the 2024 Paris Olympics, it is crucial to remain vigilant against disinformation and propaganda efforts that seek to undermine the spirit of the Games and sow discord among nations.
