MP Michael Chong targeted in ‘information operation’ likely from China – National | 24CA News
Global Affairs Canada (GAC) says it has detected an “information operation” focusing on Conservative MP Michael Chong and it’s “highly probable” — however not conclusive — that got here from China.
A abstract of the report says the detected operation occurred between May 4 and 13, 2023 – coinciding with Canada designating Chinese diplomat Zhao Wei within the Toronto consulate persona non grata, expelling him from the nation.
The expulsion adopted allegations that Wei was concerned in makes an attempt from Beijing’s intelligence service focusing on Chong and his household.
GAC says the WeChat community “amplified a large volume of false or misleading narratives” about Chong. In GAC’s evaluation, nothing noticed represented a security risk for Chong or his household.
The RRM offered Chong with a briefing on Aug. 9, in accordance with GAC.
Officials mentioned one-third of the community concerned recognized state-media shops and accounts probably linked to Beijing. The remaining two-thirds of the WeChat accounts had been nameless and had not beforehand posted about Canadian politics.
“An analysis by the RRM to determine the possibility of state involvement revealed that, while China’s role in the information operation is highly probable, unequivocal proof that China ordered and directed the operation is not possible to determine due to the covert nature of how social media networks are leveraged in this type of information campaign,” the GAC assertion reads.
While the RRM is unable to definitively hyperlink the Chinese authorities to this data community, GAC notes it takes overseas interference critically as it will possibly undermine Canada’s democracy by discouraging parliamentarians from finishing up their duties and talking out on vital points.
The report notes that it’s arduous to find out what number of WeChat customers are in Canada, it’s estimated there are multiple million customers in Canada.
The RRM estimates there are between two and 5 million customers globally who considered this content material.
© 2023 Global News, a division of Corus Entertainment Inc.
