Singapore issued a directive to its internet service providers to block access to websites deemed “inauthentic” on October 22, 2024, as these sites are believed to be part of foreign hostile information campaigns and could potentially be used to target Singapore.
Threat actors are using networks of inauthentic news websites, often operated from a single location, to spread false information and avoid detection. These websites pose as independent news outlets from various regions, enabling foreign influence campaigns to target specific audiences.
The authorities have issued instructions to internet service providers to block access to ten websites identified as being inauthentic, which are believed to be used by foreign actors to conduct hostile information campaigns in the country.
It is possible for these lifestyle and entertainment news websites to be used to spread misinformation, despite the fact that they appear to be completely not harmful.
Creating an illusory truth effect, which is when false information appears to be more credible, can be accomplished by repeatedly disseminating the same stories across a network of websites of this kind.
The MHA/IMDA blocked inauthentic websites due to their potential to deceive visitors with seemingly unbiased information, which was anticipated following the CENS team’s observation of these sites and subsequent policy report publication.
Several inauthentic news sites linked to a Shanghai PR firm and a news distribution company were identified, which are falsely claimed Asian origins and were connected to foreign influence networks.
Although it was not known who owned one of the sites, the evidence pointed to the fact that it was not from Singapore. The networks artificially boosted commercial press releases by replicating stories across multiple sites, creating a false illusion of global reach and origin.
This allowed foreign actors to post stories surrounded by noncontroversial content, making them appear to come from various agencies and countries, despite having a single source.
RSIS found no evidence of Singapore-based networks or sites being used for HICs, but they pose a threat as they could be used for disinformation, while previous reports suggest inauthentic social media accounts could launch inauthentic news sites to influence public opinion.
The Singapore government has blocked ten inauthentic websites to prevent their use in foreign influence campaigns, citing reports by Mandiant, Citizen Lab, and South Korean intelligence, as this move is in line with the government’s proactive approach to countering foreign interference.
The initiatives that Singapore has taken to improve digital literacy, such as the S.U.R.E. campaigns are absolutely necessary in order to combat foreign interference through online HICs by Singapore.
By enhancing public awareness of deceptive tactics used in online content, these initiatives empower citizens to critically evaluate and discern authentic information sources, which is crucial in a digitally connected society vulnerable to foreign influence.