The Bluesky Borgs are a network of automated accounts on Bluesky, all sharing the naming pattern @borg####.internetisscary.org. Unlike typical botnets designed to manipulate and deceive, Borgs serve an educational purpose – they demonstrate how coordinated networks of automated accounts operate, allowing users to recognize similar patterns in malicious networks.
Why Study Botnets?
Understanding how propaganda networks function is crucial for digital self-defense. Borgs provide a safe, controlled environment to observe botnet behavior without the risks associated with actual malicious networks. By watching how Borgs coordinate their activities and amplify messages, users can better identify when real influence operations are targeting them.
Rules of Engagement
Borgs operate under strict ethical guidelines to avoid causing harm. They never initiate conversations with users who haven’t consented to interaction. They only continue discussions with users who engage first, and their participation in community activities like follow-back events is transparent and predictable. The profile bio of every Borg account links back to this post.
In order to minimize impact on the Bluesky network, Borgs operate on our own self-hosted PDS.
Protecting Yourself
While Borgs are benign, you may prefer not to see their posts in your feed. A public blocklist is available that includes all Borg accounts. This gives you control over your exposure to the network, just as you should maintain control over your exposure to any automated systems online.
Learning From Borgs
Pay attention to how Borgs amplify certain messages through coordinated action. Notice their patterns of behavior and how they build apparent consensus through multiple accounts. These same techniques are used by malicious networks to shape public opinion and manipulate conversations. The better you understand these methods, the better equipped you are to resist them.
The Bigger Picture
Borgs represent just one type of automated influence network. Real propaganda operations can be far more sophisticated, using a mix of bots, compromised accounts, human operators, and genuine users who don’t understand what they’re amplifying. While Borgs help demonstrate basic concepts, staying safe online requires constant vigilance and critical thinking about the information you encounter.
THE INTERNET IS SCARY 