Can Democracy Survive the Age of Cyberweapons? The Hidden Battle for Trust

How Hackers and Disinformation Campaigns Are Undermining Democracy

As the digital world grows more complex, the very idea of democracy faces unprecedented threats. Nicole Perlroth’s book uncovers how hackers, state actors, and disinformation specialists have targeted elections, public opinion, and the trust that binds societies together. From phishing attacks on campaign officials to the manipulation of social media feeds, the tools of cyberwarfare have become weapons in the battle for hearts and minds.

The consequences are profound. Leaked emails, hacked voting systems, and viral fake news have cast doubt on the legitimacy of elections in dozens of countries. In response, some nations have reverted to paper ballots and manual counting, seeking security in the tangible and the auditable. But the challenge goes beyond technology: the speed and reach of disinformation mean that even the most secure systems can be undermined by public confusion and polarization.

Perlroth’s reporting shows that democracy’s greatest vulnerability is not just in code, but in trust. When citizens doubt the process, the outcome becomes irrelevant. Yet, there are signs of hope. Transparency, education, and a renewed commitment to democratic values can help rebuild the bonds that cyberweapons seek to break. The return to paper ballots in Ukraine, public awareness campaigns, and bipartisan efforts to secure elections are steps in the right direction.

The battle for democracy in the digital age is far from over, but it is one we can win—if we recognize the threat and work together to defend the values that matter most. 1 2