Weaponizing Heritage in Online Cognitive Warfare
Abstract:
This theoretical paper reviews prior research on cognitive warfare and related fields, arguing that modern conflict increasingly targets human cognition and heritage through AI‑enabled information operations. Heritage becomes both a material and symbolic instrument, with disinformation shaping perceptions of its protection or destruction to justify strategic actions. Digital platforms, through influencers, bots, deepfakes, and algorithmic amplification, intensify these tactics by manipulating narratives, identities, and emotions at scale. Such cognitive operations complement kinetic actions, creating fragmented information environments where narrative control may rival territorial control in strategic importance. Emerging threats include cyberattacks on archives and metadata manipulation, underscoring the need for integrated measures that combine technological security with cultural and societal resilience.
AUTHORS
Associate Professor in Political Science Researcher
Faculty of Management and Business Tampere University
Niina Meriläinen is a Docent of Political Science at the Faculty of Management and Business, Tampere University. She serves as a senior researcher specializing in cognitive and cyber warfare, disinformation, propaganda, intelligence, and information operations. Her work explores the intersections of security, technology, and political communication, contributing to a deeper understanding of information warfare and cognition alongside of kinetic warfare.
Published In
Journal of Information Warfare
The definitive publication for the best and latest research and analysis on information warfare, information operations, and cyber crime. Available in traditional hard copy or online.
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