FBI resumes outreach to social media companies over foreign propaganda
NBCMar 19
FBI to Resume Talks With Social Media Companies
Above: Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Christopher Wray testifies before the House Judiciary Committee in the Rayburn House Office Building on July 24, 2024 in Washington, DC. Image copyright: Justin Sullivan/Staff/Getty images News via Getty Images
The Facts
Ahead of the 2024 US presidential election, the FBI is set to resume regular talks with social media firms over "potential [Foreign Malign Influence] threats" on their platforms, according to a draft Justice Department memo.
The federal agency will reportedly make social media companies more aware of its new protocol for monitoring suspected foreign influence operations online.
The Spin
Democratic narrative
The FBI's renewed collaboration with social media companies is critical to address foreign malign influences, particularly amid the upcoming election, which must be protected. The Justice Department aims to improve transparency about these efforts while ensuring First Amendment rights are respected.
Republican narrative
Recent disclosures of the FBI's interactions with social media firms like Twitter suggest attempts to influence information flow. Besides pressuring the platforms to act against so-called misinformation, it also influences political decisions. The need for vigilance against government overreach is key.