This short course covers several different aspects of disinformation from historical examples of information warfare and disinformation to the traits of a disinformationist. This is critical to know and understand. As a cognitive warfighter, you are a target and are subjected to various aspects of disinformation. The focus of this course is mostly Russian in nature. We touch upon Iran and China in this course but cover them more specifically in separate courses.
Learning Objectives
The Course covers Disinformation and Propaganda, Hybrid Warfare Tactics, Information Weaponization, Psychological Operations (Cyber) and more. Students learn about adversary use of sophisticated disinformation and propaganda campaign to shape narratives and distort the truth. It spreads false or misleading information through state-controlled media outlets, social media platforms, and other online channels. The dissemination of disinformation aims to manipulate public opinion, create confusion, and undermine state credibility. Adversaries employ psychological operations (PSYOPS) to manipulate the perceptions, attitudes, and behaviors of their . These operations include targeted messaging, manipulation of emotions, and the creation of false narratives to influence public sentiment and control the information environment. PSYOPS aim to weaken target government resolve, foster distrust in authorities.