By Elsie Kamsiyochi
French authorities are investigating allegations that an obscure Israeli-linked company known as BlackCore may have played a role in a covert disinformation campaign targeting candidates from the hard-left political movement (LFI) during the country’s municipal elections earlier this year.
According to sources familiar with the investigation, French intelligence agencies are examining whether BlackCore orchestrated an online smear operation aimed at undermining at least three LFI mayoral candidates through deceptive websites, anonymous social media activity, and targeted digital advertisements. Officials are also trying to determine who may have financed or commissioned the alleged campaign, raising concerns about foreign influence in France’s democratic process.
The alleged interference reportedly focused on three prominent LFI figures: in Marseille, in Toulouse, and in Roubaix. Authorities believe the campaign attempted to damage their reputations by spreading misleading claims online, including accusations of criminal or inappropriate behavior. The operation reportedly included fake websites, anonymous accounts, and paid advertisements designed to discredit the candidates during heated local races.
BlackCore, which previously described itself online as an “elite influence, cyber, and technology company” specializing in modern “information warfare,” has since disappeared from public view. Both its website and LinkedIn page were taken offline after Reuters sought comment. The company allegedly marketed services to governments and political campaigns, claiming to shape public narratives using advanced digital tools and cybersecurity techniques. However, Reuters reported it could not independently confirm who owns the firm, where it operates, or whether it officially exists in Israeli corporate records.
The investigation intensified after , the parent company of Facebook, identified a suspicious network of accounts linked to coordinated online manipulation ahead of the French municipal elections. Meta stated it had dismantled accounts for violating rules against “coordinated inauthentic behavior,” saying the activity originated in Israel and primarily targeted France. However, the company stopped short of publicly naming BlackCore as responsible.
Meanwhile, platforms including and reportedly detected parts of the operation independently while monitoring suspicious digital activity. TikTok confirmed that it removed an account connected to one of the fake websites allegedly used in the smear campaign, citing violations of policies against deceptive conduct.
French disinformation watchdog had earlier warned of “foreign digital interference” aimed at a political party and candidates in cities including Marseille, Toulouse, and Roubaix. While officials initially described the operation as having a “limited” reach, the case has sparked wider fears about the growing sophistication of election interference campaigns in Europe, particularly as political polarization deepens ahead of France’s 2027 presidential election.
LFI, a deeply divisive force in French politics, has become an increasingly influential player despite criticism from opponents. The party, known for its pro-Palestinian positions and left-wing economic policies, has faced accusations of antisemitism from some political rivals and Jewish organizations—claims the movement strongly denies. Despite controversy, analysts say LFI maintains a loyal voter base that could help it advance to the second round of France’s 2027 presidential race.
Among those allegedly targeted, Piquemal reported being attacked through anonymous websites and online advertisements published in local media, prompting him to file complaints with police. He has argued that the campaign may have been motivated by his vocal support for Gaza and his political standing in Toulouse. Delogu also pursued legal action after an anonymous website circulated damaging insinuations about him and QR codes directing users to the content appeared across Marseille.
French officials have not publicly confirmed BlackCore’s role, and prosecutors have remained largely silent as the inquiry continues. Israel’s foreign ministry stated it had no knowledge of the company and did not comment on whether French authorities had raised the matter diplomatically.
The allegations have intensified concerns over how digital manipulation, foreign influence campaigns, and covert online propaganda could shape future elections in Europe.
With France preparing for a fiercely contested presidential election in 2027, political leaders and security officials are increasingly warning that disinformation operations could become more widespread, technologically advanced, and harder to trace.
Source: Reuters
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