Astroturfing și războiul psihologic pe Facebook: grile de verificare a conturilor false

Astroturfing is a sophisticated form of psychological warfare and informational manipulation, where coordinated networks of fake accounts create the illusion of genuine public support for specific political, economic, or social narratives. In the context of hybrid warfare, this strategy has become a crucial tool used by both state and non-state actors to influence public perceptions, destabilize societies, and undermine democratic processes. Its impact on national security is significant, as it erodes a population’s ability to distinguish between real and fabricated information, thereby reducing resilience to manipulation and propaganda. This study examines the impact of astroturfing on public opinion, identifies the psychological mechanisms exploited in such campaigns, and proposes a methodological framework for detecting suspicious accounts involved in these activities. Two identification grids for fake Facebook accounts have been developed: an extensive grid with 34 criteria for in-depth analysis and a simplified grid with 10 key indicators, designed for quick and accessible use by regular users. These grids are based on observable behavioral patterns and technical characteristics that may indicate potential manipulative activity. The application of these criteria to a set of suspicious accounts has validated the relevance of each indicator within the current digital ecosystem. The paper highlights the crucial role of media literacy and appropriate regulations in combating this phenomenon but places particular emphasis on critical thinking as the primary means of resilience against manipulation. In an era where information warfare plays a central role in influence strategies, the ability of individuals to critically analyze and evaluate the information they consume is a key factor in national security and societal stability.