The Evolution of Nation-State Hacking

Nation-state hackers have shifted their focus from traditional data theft to manipulating individuals through social media algorithms. Originally targeting state secrets, these hackers now exploit social media to induce societal discord and sow distrust among the public. By creating fake personas and troll farms, such as the Internet Research Agency, they have effectively blended marketing tactics with political manipulation. This evolution represents a significant change in how information warfare is conducted, highlighting the importance of understanding modern digital threats.