German security agencies are launching a joint public awareness campaign to counter what they describe as hybrid warfare tactics employed by Moscow. Starting next week, the agencies will utilize social media platforms to warn individuals about the recruitment of so-called “disposable agents” by Russian intelligence services, according to reports.
The initiative, spearheaded by the Federal Criminal Police Office (BKA), involves collaboration between the BKA, the Federal Intelligence Service (BND), the Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution (BfV) and the Military Counterintelligence Service (MAD).
The campaign aims to highlight the legal and personal risks associated with acting as a “disposable agent”. Authorities emphasize that even seemingly minor offenses – such as photographing secure locations or transmitting such images – can be classified as agent activity if conducted under the direction of a foreign state, potentially resulting in significant fines or imprisonment. The campaign will rely on disseminating information through the agencies’ existing social media channels, without the use of paid advertising.
According to assessments from German security officials, these “disposable agents” are typically young, tech-savvy men, often with minor criminal records and frequently originating from Russia or Eastern European countries. Many reportedly harbor pro-Putin and pro-Russian regime sympathies.
Recruitment occurs through complex networks of intermediaries utilizing messaging services. Individuals performing these tasks generally receive payments ranging from two to four-figure Euro amounts, typically settled in cryptocurrency. Tracing the origins of recruitment proves challenging for authorities. The scope of activity undertaken by these individuals ranges from the creation of propaganda graffiti to espionage and concrete sabotage plans.