Russia co-opted 'black lives matter' messaging on social media

Popular 'Blacktivist' social media accounts were reportedly run by a Russia-linked group - not American activists - according to CNN. They used these accounts to spread pro-racial diversity messaging like topics on #BlackLivesMatter and and to promote anti-police brutality events. CNN reported on Friday that they also used the accounts to manufacture and sell merchandise such as t-shirts with black pride slogans. Apparently, the aim of their activities was to "stoke outrage" and "amplify racial tensions" in order to influence the 2016 U.S. election.

The 'Blacktivist' accounts have now been suspended, and Facebook delivered information about them to U.S. investigators and lawmakers as part of the government investigation on Russian meddling in the 2016 election. Facebook's documents included 3,000 ads and 470 Russia-linked accounts.

In addition to promoting messages on social media, the Russian connection behind the accounts sold merchandise, through their social media accounts and the DIY t-shirt retailer Represent. The merchandise included t-shirts with phrases and images supporting black pride, and opposing racism and police brutality.

The effort to transfer political messages beyond the confines of the internet is significant, as it contributes to real-world discord. The group also apparently promoted events planned by legitimate activist groups, such as Black Lives Matter rallies and protests.

The use of Black Lives Matter messaging by Russians is consistent with reports that Russia bought Facebook ads targeting Ferguson and Baltimore featuring anti-police brutality messaging, apparently to increase protest turnout, and stoke the ire of those opposed to the protests.

Apparently, neither Facebook, Twitter, nor Represent, flagged the 'Blacktivist' accounts because their messages seemed consistent with other black activist groups, and did not violate any terms of service. In a statement from Represent to CNN, the company said "our guidelines prohibit illegal or offensive content, but nothing in this campaign appears to have violated those guidelines." Represent has not responded to Mashable's request for comment regarding whether they have any screening process for users.

The issues of racism and police brutality against black people in America are real and dire. Having them front and center in our political and cultural discourse is beyond justified. But the nefarious accounts, and effort to amplify messages through merchandising, marks a co-opting of these causes.

You can check out a timeline of how Russia used Facebook to influence U.S. politics here.