Contents

Acknowledgments

Abstract

Introduction

I- WHAT HAPPENED

1. The Disinformation Campaign
a) By the Kremlin media
b) By the American alt-right
2. The Aperitif : #MacronGate
3. The Hack
4. The Leak
5. In Summary, a Classic “Hack and Leak” Information Operation
6. Epilogue : One and Two Years Later

II- WHO DID IT ?

1. The Disinformation Campaign
2. The Hack
3. The Leak
4. Conclusion : a combination of Russian intelligence and American alt-right

III- WHY DID IT FAIL AND WHAT LESSONS CAN BE LEARNED ?

1. Structural Reasons
2. Luck
3. Anticipation
Lesson 1 : Learn from others
Lesson 2 : Use the right administrative tools
Lesson 3 : Raise awareness
Lesson 4 : Show resolve and determination
Lesson 5 : Take (technical) precautions
Lesson 6 : Put pressure on digital platforms
4. Reaction
Lesson 7 : Make all hacking attempts public
Lesson 8 : Gain control over the leaked information
Lesson 9 : Stay focused and strike back
Lesson 10 : Use humor
Lesson 11 : Alert law enforcement
Lesson 12 : Undermine propaganda outlets
Lesson 13 : Trivialize the leaked content
Lesson 14 : Compartmentalize communication
Lesson 15 : Call on the media to behave responsibly
5. Storytelling

CONCLUSION : THE ROAD AHEAD

1. Framing the Debate : The CAPS-IRSEM Report
2. Acting : Legislation, Media Literacy, and Internal Organization
3. Internationalizing : A Concrete Proposal

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