In this talk, we will present our findings on how Spamouflage, a Chinese state-aligned network Graphika has been tracking since 2019, has shifted its content and tactics to focus on the 2022 U.S. midterms. Our previous investigations into Spamouflage have demonstrated how the network’s U.S.-focused narratives often aim to discredit the country on the international stage or highlight general societal failings. However, Spamouflage content in recent months has evolved to explicitly focus on criticisms of U.S. political parties, politicians, and the electoral process.
At the same time, Spamouflage appears to be testing new tactics, techniques, and procedures in an attempt to garner more authentic engagement. Known for posting stylistically similar videos two to three minutes in length, Spamouflage has now begun to incorporate short-form video content that can be found across YouTube, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, Reddit, and TikTok, demonstrating the network’s ability to adapt to emerging social media trends such as the popularity of short video and related platforms. We will examine these newest emerging tactics, techniques, and procedures.