The Allegations: Russian Interference via Social Media
In the wake of Japan’s 2025 Upper House election, concerns have emerged over alleged foreign interference—specifically, rumors that Russia may have used social media to sow division and influence public opinion. According to The Japan News, suspicious viral posts during the campaign period were traced to bot activity linked to Russian interests. These posts often targeted Japan’s foreign aid policies and attempted to stir domestic resentment, particularly after the Noto Peninsula earthquake.
While the Japanese government has yet to release detailed findings, officials like Digital Transformation Minister Masaaki Taira have acknowledged the vulnerability of elections to foreign manipulation through AI and social platforms. The LDP has even cited Russian disinformation as a factor in its election losses.
Could This Really Happen?
Unfortunately, yes. Japan was once considered relatively immune to foreign influence campaigns due to its linguistic and cultural barriers. But with the rise of advanced translation tools and AI-driven content generation, those barriers are eroding fast. Similar tactics have been documented in other countries, including Romania, where a pro-Russian candidate won amid viral misinformation.
Are People Really That Easily Influenced?
Social media’s influence isn’t uniform—it depends heavily on individual traits. Research shows that people high in openness and extraversion are more likely to engage with and be influenced by social media content. Those with lower conscientiousness or higher neuroticism may also be more susceptible to emotionally charged or misleading posts.
Conversely, individuals who are more analytical , skeptical , or conscientious tend to question sources and resist manipulation. Media literacy, critical thinking, and emotional regulation play key roles in buffering against influence.
Should We Quit Social Media Altogether?
It’s tempting to say yes—but the answer isn’t so simple. Quitting social media can lead to improved mental health, reduced anxiety, and better focus. However, it may also result in social isolation or loss of access to useful information. The key lies in mindful usage : curating your feed, verifying sources, and limiting exposure to emotionally manipulative content.
Final Thoughts: Vigilance Over Withdrawal
Foreign interference via social media is not just a theoretical threat—it’s a documented reality. But rather than abandoning these platforms, we should focus on strengthening our defenses: better education, smarter algorithms, and more transparent regulation. Social media isn’t inherently dangerous—it’s how we use it, and how we protect ourselves, that makes the difference.