France detects massive foreign interference targeting presidential candidates

French authorities have detected a massive and early wave of foreign digital interference targeting candidates for the upcoming presidential election. Anne-Sophie Dhiver, deputy head of Viginum—the agency tasked with combating foreign information manipulation—reported that over one hundred such operations have already been identified.

This level of activity significantly exceeds previous electoral cycles in France, such as the 2024 European and legislative elections, which saw 25 identified operations. The current manipulations have primarily targeted candidates Gabriel Attal, Raphaël Glucksmann, and Édouard Philippe.

Investigations indicate these operations stem largely from pro-Russian networks, specifically Matriochka and Storm-1516. While the current impact is described as being at a “mediocre level” without widespread visibility, officials warn that such manipulations typically intensify as voting approaches. In response, a Senate commission has adopted a bill aimed at combating foreign interference, which includes measures to toughen penalties for the dissemination of false information.