Influencers as Tools in Hybrid Operations Online

Abstract

The study highlights the risks and threats that influencers pose to national security, as they serve as political role models and agenda setters for young people. Young people trust influencers and various digital platforms but do not view them as threats to national security. The digital revolution and information technology have reshaped power and legitimacy, and influencers can influence young people to turn against their own state, radicalize people, and make them distrust officials, politicians, and the military. They use digital platforms for their advantage, and young people trust influencers as truthtellers more than traditional gatekeepers. However, the risks to national security cannot be tackled by simply banning or regulating platforms like TikTok and Meta.