
Foreign-based social media accounts are masquerading as patriotic Brits lamenting the UK's 'decline'. These profiles, which use AI to amplify anti-immigrant rhetoric, are being viewed and shared by vast audiences who are often unaware of the content's origin. The BBC has seen evidence that dozens of those posting from Eastern Europe to South Asia are coordinating their activity through group chats, with some even claiming to be in communication with political actors inside the UK. Marianna and Matt discuss the ideological approach of these remote creators, and explain why their tactics are reminiscent of modern state-backed influence campaigns.Also this week, the TikTok users reclaiming fruit from AI, and why Charli XCX's latest promo campaign is splitting opinion.Top Comment is hosted by Marianna Spring and Matt Shea. The series producer is Laurie Kalus. The social producer is Sophie Millward. The technical producer was Ben Andrews. The editor is Justine Lang. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.Listeners in the UK can see Marianna's full Panorama investigation here: https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m002wwqxIf you want to get in touch about something that's popped up on your feed, our email address is topcomment@bbc.co.uk or you can send us a WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480.
Podzilla Summary coming soon
Sign up to get notified when the full AI-powered summary is ready.
Free forever for up to 3 podcasts. No credit card required.

Is Hasan Piker NSFW now? And Tung Tung's generational run

Sleuth wars, incels in STEM, and just want Harambe back

Why you're wrong about Palantir, and TL;DR Tolkien

BONUS: Taylor Lorenz says "don't blame social media"
Free AI-powered recaps of Top Comment and your other favorite podcasts, delivered to your inbox.
Free forever for up to 3 podcasts. No credit card required.