Kremlin-linked troll farm spreads fake news about Kamala Harris, Microsoft reports
A Russian troll farm spread a false hit-and-run story about Kamala Harris, Microsoft reveals, in an effort to interfere with the upcoming US election.

Microsoft researchers have uncovered a Russian disinformation operation that falsely accused United States Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris of leaving a 13-year-old girl paralysed in a hit-and-run incident in 2011. The operation, led by a Kremlin-linked group called Storm-1516, used actors and fabricated news outlets, including a fake site called ‘KBSF-TV’, to spread the baseless claim. The hoax was widely shared on social media, gaining millions of views.
The disinformation effort is part of a broader Russian campaign to interfere with the upcoming US presidential election. After initial difficulties shifting focus following President Biden’s withdrawal from the 2024 race, Russian actors have targeted Harris and her running mate, Tim Walz, with fabricated conspiracy theories. The false claim against Harris was amplified on social media by pro-Russian figures, including Aussie Cossack, who encouraged MAGA supporters to spread the misinformation.
Microsoft‘s investigation highlights how Storm-1516 produces misleading videos featuring actors impersonating journalists or whistleblowers. The hit-and-run story gained traction online, particularly on X.com, where it was shared by key figures within the pro-Russian ecosystem. The US Justice Department has also recently charged two Russian state media employees with money laundering, linked to efforts to influence the election.
US officials believe Russia’s goal is to deepen political divisions within the country and undermine public support for military aid to Ukraine. Kamala Harris has stated her intention to continue supporting Ukraine’s defence against Russia‘s invasion if elected.