Warning: The Rising Threat of Cognitive Warfare Revealed in Recent Investigations
Cognitive warfare, also known as NeuroStrike, has emerged as a highly effective and invisible threat in recent investigations. The need for precautionary measures to counter this growing menace is not only crucial for government agencies but also for the general public. Understanding the nature of cognitive warfare is essential to protect ourselves and combat its influence.
Cognitive warfare utilizes two main types of weapons to manipulate the cognitive abilities of its targets. The first type is NeuroStrike or neuro-cognitive disruptors, which are microwave or energy-based weapons. These weapons have proven to be incredibly effective within a range of 3,000 meters. They can permanently impair the cognitive capabilities of their targets, causing confusion and hindering their ability to make sound decisions. For instance, these weapons were reportedly used against US diplomats in Havana and by China against protestors in Hong Kong in 2019. Chinese police stations abroad have also allegedly employed these weapons to target individuals who oppose Chinese viewpoints.
The second type of weapon used in cognitive warfare involves the use of the Internet of Things (IoT), print and electronic media, and other propaganda methods to manipulate the cognitive domain of the population, decision-makers, and military commanders. Through meticulous collection of data, specially designed operations are launched to manipulate targets’ cognitive processes. The goal is not only to confuse or deny information but to ultimately influence the targets’ actions.
These weapons have three distinct characteristics. Firstly, they are invisible and their impact is only felt after the fact. Secondly, attributing these attacks to their initiators poses a significant challenge. Lastly, targets often remain convinced of the arguments planted by the perpetrators of cognitive warfare and act as their agents.
Recent reports have shed light on China’s development of new neuro-strike weapons capable of impairing the cognitive capabilities of targets, while also manipulating their brains to extract sensitive information. Chinese influence operations have been known to manipulate perceptions across various sectors, using means such as financial investments, fellowships, travel courtesies, and coercion. These actions can have long-term damaging effects.
Furthermore, reports indicate that the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) could potentially use these weapons to occupy areas. By releasing weaponized bacterial strains and introducing immunized PLA troops, they could gain control over an occupied region. Any remaining sources of resistance would then be dealt with through CCP Neuro-Strike weaponry, inducing fear and cognitive incoherence, resulting in inactivity.
To effectively counter this rising threat, both government agencies and the general public must take action. Government agencies need to adapt their technological and organizational infrastructures and update their professional culture to address cognitive warfare. A review of training, staffing patterns, and recruitment policies is necessary to focus on this dimension. There should also be closer cooperation between armed forces and civilian intelligence agencies to have a holistic intelligence assessment.
Building defensive capabilities against neurocognitive disruptors is of utmost importance. Advanced research should be encouraged to develop countermeasures against energy-based weapons. Artificial Intelligence (AI) can play a crucial role in alerting the population, diplomats, and armed forces about attacks and providing automated cover to contain the impact of these attacks.
Equally important is creating awareness among the general population, who remain the primary targets. Platforms like social media are being skillfully misused, with users often unaware that they are being targeted by adversaries. NGOs with expertise in this aspect need to be formed to launch effective awareness programs. Such investments are necessary to ensure that the domestic population does not become a weapon in the hands of adversaries.
Legal systems also need to be tightened to combat cognitive warfare. Advanced countries have already incorporated this aspect into their cybersecurity doctrines, formulating cyber strategies to deter opponents. India should consider developing a declaratory robust cyber strategy doctrine with a focus on deterrence, dissuading adversaries and their supported groups from launching attacks.
The threat of cognitive warfare demands immediate action. By implementing precautionary measures, raising awareness, and developing defensive capabilities, we can effectively combat this rising menace. Failure to keep pace with the development of these destabilizing instruments could have severe consequences. It is imperative for all stakeholders, including government agencies, NGOs, the private sector, and the general public to work together in countering this invisible threat head-on.
