What is Astroturfing?

Astroturfing is a practice of creating the illusion of grassroots support for a particular cause or product. It is often used by corporations or special interest groups to promote their own agendas.

The term "astroturfing" comes from the practice of laying down artificial turf, which is a type of grass that is not native to the area where it is installed. In the same way, astroturfing is a type of fake grassroots support that is not organic or genuine.

How does Astroturfing Work?

Astroturfing can be done in a number of ways. One common method is to create fake social media accounts and use them to spread positive messages about the product or cause that is being promoted. Another method is to create fake websites or blogs that appear to be independent sources of information, but are actually controlled by the corporation or special interest group.

Astroturfers may also use paid advertising to promote their cause. They may create ads that appear to be from independent sources but are actually funded by the corporation or special interest group.

Why is Astroturfing a Problem?

Astroturfing is a problem because it can mislead people into believing that there is widespread support for a particular cause or product when there is not. This can lead to people making decisions that are not in their best interests.

For example, a corporation may astroturf to promote a new product that is not actually safe or effective. This could lead people to buy the product, even though it is not in their best interests.

How to Spot Astroturfing

There are a few things you can look for to spot astroturfing. One is to be suspicious of any message that seems too good to be true. If a product or cause is being promoted with a lot of enthusiasm, but there is no evidence of real people supporting it, it is likely astroturfing.

Another thing to look for is the use of fake social media accounts or websites. If you see a lot of positive messages about a product or cause coming from accounts that have no real followers or engagement, it is likely astroturfing.

Finally, be suspicious of any message that is paid for by a corporation or special interest group. If you see an ad for a product or cause that is clearly funded by a particular organization, it is likely astroturfing.