Hurricane Disinformation: Graphika Intelligence Cited by PolitiFact

When it came to evidence of foreign interference in the days after the storms, Graphika told PolitiFact that our intelligence analysts detected China engaging in these online behaviors.

"Graphika has observed Chinese state-linked actors, including the Chinese state-linked influence operation network Spamouflage, amplifying misinformation surrounding Hurricane Helene," Graphika said.

The report also cited Graphika's insights on this "consistent pattern" of Chinese state actors who "opportunistically leverage disastrous events" in order to "denigrate the U.S. government and cast doubt on leadership at both federal and local levels."

This is part of wider efforts by foreign actors to spread false narratives and portray the U.S. as declining in power, a topic recently documented in Graphika's report The #Americans.

PolitiFact noted the high stakes of such activities, including that they "complicated relief efforts and distorted information about available assistance" during a difficult time for many Americans.