Russian Telegram Channels Report Massive Influx of Bot Subscribers

A wide range of Russian Telegram channels, including both independent news outlets and state propaganda arms, have reported a sudden and suspicious increase in subscribers. The new followers are described as inactive accounts with computer generated names and no profile pictures. Independent outlets such as Meduza, Novaya Gazeta, TV Rain, Important Stories, Astra, and Ostorozhno Novosti reported the surge, as did the pro government RT channel and the channel of host Vladimir Solovyov. Politician Boris Nadezhdin also reported that his subscriber count was artificially inflated.

The motive behind the bot attack remains unknown, though several entities have offered theories. TV Rain suggested the inflation could be used as a pretext for mass complaints to get channels blocked, potentially linked to upcoming State Duma elections. The channel of Vladimir Solovyov described the event as a targeted attempt to discredit the community. Important Stories noted that they previously experienced a similar influx following an investigation into underage sex trafficking that named billionaire Oleg Deripaska as a client. In response to the threat of potential blocking, some outlets have shared links to backup channels.