Albania faces rising threat from foreign disinformation and cyberattacks

TIRANA, Dec 2, 2024 – Albania is dealing with a surge of disinformation and cyberattacks, with institutions struggling to coordinate their response to the growing threat of foreign interference.

A special parliamentary commission has exposed serious gaps in the country’s approach. Since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, fake news campaigns and cyberattacks have spiked, targeting everything from public health services to key economic sectors.

“We’re unprepared,” warns official

Erion Braçe, head of the disinformation commission, expressed deep concern. “Russian-linked businesses are quietly operating here to dodge sanctions,” he revealed. Braçe also criticised the lack of laws to tackle fake news, leaving Albania vulnerable.

The National Business Centre (NBC), responsible for tracking company ownership, admitted that its data often clashes with other institutions. “This lack of coordination is worrying,” said Braçe.

Propaganda in plain sight

Albania has blocked over 150 Russian websites, but the real danger lies on social media. Kremlin-backed propaganda is being spread in Albanian, targeting local audiences, yet many of these accounts remain active.

“This disinformation risks creating chaos and undermining democracy,” warned international relations lecturer Dritan Hoti.

Time for action

Experts are calling for urgent legal reforms and better institutional coordination. Without swift measures, Albania risks falling further into the grip of foreign disinformation campaigns.