Cognitive Security: Analysis of automated influence operations based on deepfake advertising

DOCTORAL THESIS SUMMARY

This thesis explores the evolving interdependence between communication and technology, and how this has given rise to the research question of how online advertising platforms are being exploited as attack vectors in automated influence operations based on deepfake ads. The motivation behind this study is to shed light on this phenomenon and propose countermeasures against deepfake ads, which have become disruptive in an information climate dominated by overlapping crises. Utilising algorithmic instruments for the identification and examination of cases, the document investigates the trends and operational interdependencies between information attacks, manifesting as deceptive advertising through deepfake ads, and cyberattacks, exemplified by the malevolent utilisation of technology. The objective is to identify and depict the digital footprint associated with influence campaigns that lead to cognitive harm.