"Preventing Interference: Slight Attempts at Manipulation by Foreign Actors on the Periphery of Protest Movements"

September 10th movement susceptible to outside manipulation of information, with subtle covert tactics employed.

, and Administrator

2025 September 16 . 1:26 PM

2 min read

Foreign efforts to impede organised demonstrations, occurring mainly at the edges of public... — Foreign efforts to impede organised demonstrations, occurring mainly at the edges of public gatherings

"Preventing Interference: Slight Attempts at Manipulation by Foreign Actors on the Periphery of Protest Movements"

In recent developments, the ongoing "Block Everything" event in France is under the watchful eye of Viginum, a service dedicated to detecting foreign information operations. Despite initial concerns, it appears that the actions of certain actors involved in this mobilization do not, in the strict sense, constitute "foreign digital interference."

The "Block Everything" event, a complex and evolving composite mobilization, has transitioned from digital platforms to physical general assemblies. This multiple-fronted movement is making online maneuvers under false banners ineffective or of limited interest, as it spreads across various digital platforms, including Facebook groups, Telegram channels, and WhatsApp threads.

However, it's important to note that the "Block Everything" event, as of the current information gathered, does not represent a massive foreign influence operation. The French public debate, thus far, has not been significantly affected by this mobilization. The foreign digital interference, as defined, has not been observed in relation to the "Block Everything" event.

Bruno Retailleau, a notable figure, has accused left and far-left groups of instrumentalizing the protests to amplify social discontent on a broad scale. These groups, he claims, are using the "Block Everything" movement as a means to advance their own interests. This digital-driven movement, organized primarily through social media and Telegram channels without a central leadership, has caused significant nationwide disruption and unrest, including mass protests, blockades, fires, and hundreds of arrests. The escalating political crisis in 2025 is a testament to the impact this movement has had on the French public discourse.

Despite the disruptions, Viginum continues to monitor the "Block Everything" event, ensuring that any potential foreign influence is detected and addressed, if necessary. The service's vigilance underscores the importance of maintaining the integrity of digital communications in times of mobilization and political unrest.