Whisper campaigns are covert tactics used to spread rumors or false information to damage reputations or sway public opinion. Unlike overt propaganda, they operate secretly through personal conversations or social media. The aim is to create doubt and suspicion, often targeting those perceived as vulnerable. Examples include rumors during the 2000 and 2016 U.S. presidential elections. These campaigns are powerful tools for influencing public perception by sowing doubt and confusion.

Traditionally a mechanism seen in domestically abusive relationships, manipulative reinforcement involves using psychological tactics to control or influence another person's behavior to cater to a pre-determined bias or expectation. This can include gaslighting, guilt-tripping, or using emotional blackmail to create dependency and compliance.

Examples in an abusive relationship could align with

• "I wouldn't hit you if you just..."
• "I only cheated on you because you..."
• "If you didn't ... then I wouldn't have to..."

In the example of the Georgian Legion, the manipulative reinforcement was the evocation of abusive conduct towards community members who did not follow and re-broadcast the pre-decided messaging of the legion. The pre-determined expectation was for you to speak as the horse's mouth did, when you did not you drew the ire of NAFO & attache communities, you only solved that by acting as if you did something wrong and re-broadcasting the pre-decided messaging; resubmitting to the abuser's requirement.

Astroturfing is the practice of faking grassroots support or opposition for a message using fake identities, bots, and paid shills. It is often used by corporations or political groups to manipulate public opinion and simulate widespread support. Common tactics include fake social media accounts, fabricated reviews, and manipulated polls. While not illegal, astroturfing undermines public trust in institutions and democratic processes, making vigilance and exposure crucial.

Slander, libel, and defamation are legal terms that refer to the act of making false statements about a person that can harm their reputation. Slander involves spoken statements, while libel refers to written or published falsehoods. Defamation is the overarching term that encompasses both slander and libel. These actions can lead to legal consequences, as they can damage an individual's personal or professional reputation, leading to loss of income, emotional distress, and other damages. Legal systems often require the plaintiff to prove that the statements were false, made with malicious intent, and caused harm.

Examples of engagement seen from the "Georgian Legion" and attached audiences

• Broadcasting the label of "Russian disinformation" on content found disagreeable, but doing so even when the responsible party had a full and well-informed knowledge the subject was not sharing Russian disinformation, was not Russian, and had no ties to the Russian agenda.
• Paying for the placement of fake news articles that contained false information, to create a basis for content later usable against that individual as a "false flag".

In the context of propaganda, "false flags" refer to the intentional dissemination of misleading or fabricated information, often attributed to a source other than the true originator, with the intention of deceiving an audience or generating a desired response. The term originated in naval warfare, where ships would use enemy flags to deceive opponents. In modern times, false flags can include fake news, manipulated media, and social media misinformation.

False flags are used by governments, political groups, or corporations to manipulate public opinion or justify actions. They are effective because they exploit existing biases and beliefs, making them difficult to detect. The use of false flags underscores the need for critical thinking and media literacy to verify information sources and understand potential biases.

This law prohibits the illegal transfer or receipt of firearms in interstate or foreign commerce, knowing it would lead to a felony. Violators face fines and up to 15 years in prison.

This law penalizes aliens for illegal entry into the U.S., including avoiding inspection or using false information. First-time offenders face fines or up to 6 months in prison, with harsher penalties for repeat offenses. Civil fines range from $50 to $250 per entry. It also criminalizes marriage and business fraud intended to bypass immigration laws, with penalties up to 5 years in prison or $250,000 in fines.

This law outlines criminal penalties for actions related to bringing in and harboring unauthorized aliens in the U.S. It includes penalties for transporting, concealing, or encouraging illegal entry, with fines and imprisonment up to life or death in severe cases. Exceptions exist for religious organizations aiding aliens for non-compensated religious work. The law also covers seizure and forfeiture of vehicles used in violations, and specifies who can make arrests. Videotaped witness testimony is admissible under certain conditions, and an outreach program is mandated to educate the public on these penalties.

This code grants the President authority to regulate the import and export of defense articles and services, forming the United States Munitions List. Export licenses are issued based on considerations like arms race contributions and terrorism support. Manufacturers and brokers must register and obtain licenses, with exceptions for U.S. government activities. Violations can result in fines up to $1,000,000 or imprisonment for up to 20 years.

This section outlines firearm access prohibitions for individuals convicted of felonies, those addicted to narcotics, or those with outstanding warrants. It specifies that such individuals are guilty of a felony if they own or possess firearms. Exceptions apply if the conviction is under federal law, unless it meets certain criteria.

This statute defines harassment as actions intended to harass, annoy, or alarm, including physical contact, obscene gestures or language, following someone, or making threatening communications. Harassment can occur through various means, such as phone calls or electronic messages. Penalties vary from petty offenses to class 1 misdemeanors, especially if motivated by bias. The law, known as "Kiana Arellano's Law," respects First Amendment rights and does not restrict religious, political, or philosophical expression.

A person commits aggravated harassment in the second degree, a class A misdemeanor, by intentionally harassing or threatening another through communication or physical contact, especially if motivated by bias or if previously convicted of first-degree harassment.

Grand larceny in the fourth degree involves stealing property valued over $1,000 or specific items like public records, scientific materials, credit/debit cards, firearms, motor vehicles, or religious items. It is a class E felony. If obtained by extortion, it becomes a class D felony with harsher penalties.

This statute defines violations related to charitable solicitation, consumer fraud, deceptive trade practices, and false advertising, particularly when targeting elderly (65+) or disabled individuals. It is a gross misdemeanor if such actions lead to significant financial or personal losses for these vulnerable groups. The attorney general and local authorities share jurisdiction to prosecute these offenses statewide.

Fraud involves deceitfully obtaining someone else's property and is punishable by fines, community service, correctional labor, or imprisonment, depending on the severity and circumstances. Penalties increase for repeated offenses, group conspiracies, substantial victim damage, major fraud, or computer-related fraud, with potential imprisonment up to twelve years and property forfeiture.

If the impersonation involves someone acting as a military official to exert unauthorized authority or influence, they could be prosecuted under this article. This could include actions such as issuing unlawful orders, demanding bribes, or interfering with military operations.

Abuse of power or office is a serious offense that undermines the integrity of military and governmental operations. It is punishable by imprisonment and other legal consequences, depending on the severity and impact of the actions taken under false pretenses.

If you understand your donation to the Georgian Legion might have been made under false pretenses or due to misleading information, you can try to get your money back through a chargeback from your bank.

• Gather all the documents related to your donation. This includes emails confirming the donation, receipts, and any messages that might indicate fraudulent activity. You may even choose to use this website as a resource.
• Get in touch with your bank's customer service. You can usually find their contact number on the back of your debit or credit card or on the bank's website.
• Tell the bank representative that you suspect the donation was made under fraudulent circumstances. Share the transaction details and any evidence you've collected. While remaining respectful, make it clear that under truthful circumstances you would not have made the purchase or transaction and were deceived into doing so.
• Follow your bank's process to officially request a chargeback. This might require you to fill out a form or provide more documents to back up your claim. Every bank has a slightly different process, make sure you understand and appropriately engage in your bank's unique process.
• Monitor the progress of your request and check back with the bank if you don't hear back in a reasonable time. Keep track of any reference numbers or case IDs they give you, you will need them.

It's important to act quickly because there are usually deadlines for filing chargeback requests. Acting promptly can improve your chances of getting your money back.

This is not legal advice.

If you were defamed, slandered, or otherwise suffered material loss or impact to your class, income, or reputation due to defamatory or slanderous actions, you may indeed be due justice.

The first step you must pass in assessing whether you should seek counsel, is attempting to identify material impacts. Someone saying something mean to you on social media, does not meet the bar. Someone spreading lies that you committed criminal activity when there is evidence you did not, comes much closer to meeting the bar. Please take the time to think back through your experience with the Georgian Legion and their associates, while reviewing applicable local and national law to attempt to qualify your own experience against the bounds of legality.

If you believe you have a justified claim and want to approach it with counsel, head to Avvo to find an attorney practicing near you in the right segment of practice.

• If you were defamed or slandered, look for an attorney who specializes in defamation law.
• If you suffered financial loss due to fraud, seek an attorney with expertise in financial or fraud law.
• If your privacy was violated, find an attorney who practices privacy law.
• If you were physically harmed, consider consulting with a personal injury attorney.

Identifying the right type of attorney can significantly impact the outcome of your case, so ensure you choose someone with the appropriate expertise. Not sure the type of attorney you'll need, or not familiar enough with the scales of justice to decide? Try Avvo's free premium concierge service to chat with a live agent, tell them what you need, and get connected with an attorney in your area.