Latent bombs of disinformation

This study builds on the literature on disinformation and conspiracy theories to propose the concept of Latent Bombs of Disinformation (LBD). LBD refers to a long-term antidemocratic political strategy involving the persistent dissemination of misleading information, designed to be activated under specific conditions. The framework operationalizes LBD at three levels: macro (e.g., institutional strength), meso (e.g., media catalysts), and micro (e.g., media consumption habits). Using the 2021 presidential election in Chile and the 2022 election in Brazil as case studies, we analyze ‘electoral fraud’ narratives based on data from legacy media publications and fringe, politically aligned Telegram groups supporting losing parties, spanning the period between the first ballot and the run-off. The results highlight key differences: Brazil experienced vandalism, whereas Chile did not. Additionally, we identified evidence of coordinated activity on Telegram in Brazil but not in Chile. We contextualize these findings, discuss their implications, and suggest avenues for future research.