The proliferation of conspiracy theories online is not solely the domain of true believers. Research indicates that many individuals spreading conspiracy theories on the internet do so without genuine belief in the content they share. These individuals are exploiting conspiracy theories for various purposes, including promoting conflict, causing chaos, and garnering attention. Such opportunistic behavior is detailed in a recent analysis.
Extremist groups are particularly noted for using this tactic as a recruitment tool. By leveraging conspiracy theories, these groups attempt to engage potential followers with so-called “gateway conspiracies” that render individuals amenable to further radicalization. Multiple conspiracy theories are often tested by these groups to see which ones resonate most effectively with their audience, as explored in a comprehensive study on extremism.
Evidence of such activity is observed in data from the disinformation-monitoring company Blackbird.AI, which tracked over 119 million COVID-19 conspiracy-related posts. Findings revealed that extremist groups, including the Boogaloo Bois, were responsible for a significant portion of insincere content meant to incite and radicalize followers. As reported, 58 percent of tweets by this group were aligned with these objectives, reflecting a strategic misuse of conspiracy theories.
Some of these groups, like the Boogaloo Bois, have explicitly acknowledged their use of conspiracy theories as a tactical ploy. During the Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection, members of the group participated without endorsing the stolen election conspiracy, instead stating their intentions to disrupt the federal government. Such behavior underscores the extent to which conspiracy theories are weaponized for opportunistic ends.