Executive Summary
A convergence of federally funded research, strategic shifts within key civil society organizations, and overlapping personnel affiliations indicates a coordinated effort. This effort aims to centralize the control of online narratives.
This trend is exemplified by two key developments:
- The National Science Foundation’s (NSF) “Convergence Accelerator Track F” program.
- The 2022 agenda pivot of the DEF CON Voting Machine Hacking Village (VMHV).
These developments are not coincidental. They are thematically and temporally aligned with the strategic priorities of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) under Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas. This alignment suggests a significant degree of government influence.
This convergence blurs the critical line between independent research and state-directed information management. Ultimately, it poses a significant challenge to free speech and the impartiality of the cybersecurity community.
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