Russian intelligence services replicate ISIS methods: how they recruit agents in the EU

European media have reported that Russian intelligence services spread disinformation through social networks, using recruitment strategies reminiscent of those employed by the terrorist group ISIS. This information comes from 'Glavkom', citing the Center for Counteracting Disinformation.

According to publications, Russian intelligence agencies conduct an information-psychological campaign in the EU using similar methods to those employed by ISIS from 2013 to 2019.

The main target groups of such campaigns are marginalized Russian-speaking communities. They are indoctrinated with ideologically appealing religious or nationalist narratives and are drawn into online communities where radicalization occurs.

After recruitment, individuals are assigned tasks such as gathering intelligence or spreading disinformation. According to experts, the success of recruitment depends on economic vulnerability and the willingness to adopt the proposed ideology.

Occupation and forced mobilization in the Zaporizhzhia region

Illegal governance in the occupied territories of the Zaporizhzhia region attempts to legitimize the forced mobilization of the local population, including Melitopol. Russia has passed a law allowing conscription into the army throughout the entire year, covering temporarily occupied areas of Ukraine.

Additionally, Russian intelligence services provoke incidents in the occupied territories directed against the civilian population, creating the illusion of 'Ukrainian terrorist attacks'.

A new report has noted the similarities in the recruitment methods used by Russian intelligence with those previously employed by the terrorist organization ISIS. Intelligence agencies are trying to use disinformation and the recruitment of marginalized groups to spread their ideology in Europe. Tailored unjudged campaigns aimed at individual audience needs are designed for radicalization and manipulation of the group. Such approaches are part of the information security and stability threat.