Anonymous accounts on Twitter reportedly used the platform’s new, easy-to-obtain verification system to amplify Russian misinformation about the Norfolk Southern train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio, last month. That’s according to an Associated Press report on Saturday, which found evidence of accounts spreading scores of misinformation—like fake charts detailing an increase in cancer diagnoses, unverified pollution maps, and suggestions of mass animal die-offs, which has not been confirmed. Sprinkled between these bits of misinfo were posts linking the Biden administration’s response to the derailment with its support of Ukraine in its war against Russia. “Biden offers food, water, medicine, shelter, payouts of pension and social services to Ukraine! Ohio first! Offer and deliver to Ohio!” one of the countless posts, from a verified account with 25,000 followers, said.
