Disinformation and Information Warfare

Information warfare and disinformation represent a growing threat to governments, businesses, and citizens alike. Rather than traditional military conflict, these threats operate in the information environment—spreading false information, manipulating public opinion, and disrupting critical systems. The U.S. government recognizes these challenges as national security priorities, requiring coordinated defense strategies across military and civilian agencies.

Understanding Information Warfare and Disinformation

Information warfare is the struggle to control, deny, or manipulate information in all its forms—from raw data to complex ideas. It differs from traditional military conflict by targeting decision-makers, public opinion, and the integrity of information systems themselves. Disinformation, a key tactic, involves deliberately false information spread with the intent to deceive. This differs from misinformation, which is unintentional false information. Both can cause real damage by undermining trust in institutions, distorting public debate, and influencing political and military decisions.

Tactics and Approaches

Adversaries use multiple tactics to wage information warfare, including cyber attacks on critical infrastructure, psychological operations designed to shift public perception, propaganda campaigns through social media, and the manipulation of communications systems. Unlike traditional warfare, information attacks may not come from uniformed military forces—they can originate from foreign governments, non-state actors, or coordinated online networks. These campaigns often target civilians as much as government and military decision-makers, making the entire nation vulnerable.

America’s Defense Strategy

The U.S. military and federal government have developed comprehensive strategies to counter information warfare threats. Learn about how the Pentagon fights back against foreign propaganda and disinformation online through specific tools and operations designed to protect American information systems and public discourse. These efforts include coordinating across agencies, improving detection of false information, protecting critical infrastructure, and working with technology platforms to prevent adversaries from exploiting digital communication channels.