Social networks as an instrument of information warfare

The paper focuses on the study of the role of social networks as an instrument of information warfare. The research relevance lies in the growing role of social media in modern information wars, which made it possible to analyze the possibilities of using social media for propaganda purposes on the example of the russian-Ukrainian war. The aim is to study social media as means of conducting information warfare, to identify key technologies and tools, and to assess the effectiveness of their use by different parties to the war. Methods of analysis, synthesis, comparison for studying the phenomenon of social networks and their role in information wars are applied in the paper. The authors analyze the dynamics of social networks and their transformation into a popular source of news for millions of users. It is determined that Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, Telegram, and TikTok are the most influential platforms both in the world and in Ukraine. Statistical data on the audience of social networks are analyzed, using media materials and expert opinions. The possibilities of social networks for spreading propaganda, disinformation and manipulation of mass consciousness are investigated. The authors analyze russia's use of social media tools (bots, trolls, fakes) in its hybrid war against Ukraine. The research reveals the transformation of social networks into a powerful tool for influencing public opinion. The key technologies of information warfare in social networks are identified: the spread of fakes, the work of bots and trolls, and propaganda narratives. The information policy of Ukraine in social networks, aimed at countering russian information attacks, is considered. The key messages and channels for disseminating truthful information are identified. It is concluded that social networks are effectively used in the information war, despite certain challenges by both sides of the conflict. Recommendations for improving the strategy of Ukraine's information policy in social networks are formulated, taking into account the experience gained.