I've been reading a great history book lately about the end of the Cold War. The author had the chance to interview folks on both sides of the conflict. The Ru

I've been reading a great history book lately about the end of the Cold War. The author had the chance to interview folks on both sides of the conflict. The Russians were very, very good at establishing relationships with easily-influenced folks in the west, then using them to sway public opinion. Some were paid off, some were "useful idiots". I'm only guessing, but from what I've seen online in the last decade or so it looks like they've wholeheartedly taken those skills and applied them to internet trolling. Of course, I'm sure they're not alone. The internet has become just another battleground for nation-states. It would be very interesting to learn how much money is being spent on this kinda stuff worldwide. I bet it easily runs in the eight figures.