Overseas networks in Sri Lanka and Vietnam are targeting UK social media feeds. New investigations show these accounts spread anti-migrant messages to influence British sentiment. This operation is not just political; it is a commercial enterprise.
An investigation has uncovered how these networks use a 'hate-for-profit' business model. The Institute for Strategic Dialogue and The Bureau of Investigative Journalism have identified a coordinated effort to monetise social tension in the United Kingdom.
By using AI-generated videos and targeted advertising, these actors can reach thousands of viewers across the country. The goal is to influence national identity and migration debates through a calculated cycle of engagement and revenue.
The Discovery: Overseas Networks Targeting UK Sentiment
Patriotic UK anti-immigration social media accounts have been traced to Sri Lanka and Vietnam[2]. These overseas networks target British audiences with specific narratives. They use digital tools to reach large groups of people.
Overseas actors are using AI-generated videos[2] to push a narrative of UK decline. The content is designed to look local and authentic. It aims to stir sentiment regarding migration and national identity.
Digital investigators identified the operation through tracking specific messaging patterns. The network uses automated technology to spread its message across platforms. This allows a small group of people to influence thousands of viewers.
It is a coordinated effort.
One part of the network operates from a commercial base in Sri Lanka. This group focuses on monetising anti-migrant narratives specifically for the UK market. They use targeted advertising to ensure their videos appear in British feeds.
The 'Hate-for-profit' business model
An investigation has uncovered a commercial operation spreading anti-migrant messages for profit. The Institute for Strategic Dialogue and The Bureau of Investigative Journalism[1] identified the network. It uses targeted advertising to reach British audiences.
This operation relies on a lucrative business model. It monetises anti-migrant narratives by driving engagement through controversy. High views on inflammatory content lead to direct advertising revenue.
Geeth Sooriyapura is a central figure in this network. The Sri Lankan influencer describes himself as a 'Facebook ads king'[3]. He uses his platform to push Islamophobic and anti-migrant stories.
Sooriyapura does not hide his success. He frequently shares images of a luxury lifestyle online. The money comes from the very outrage his content creates.
He has openly admitted to building this business by targeting British audiences. The strategy turns social tension into a stream of income. It is a calculated cycle of hate and profit.
The government is fighting back
London has launched a new social media campaign in Vietnam. The British government is targeting potential migrants[4] with warnings about the risks of illegal entry. The initiative aims to disrupt the flow of people attempting to reach British shores.
This move follows a reported increase in Vietnamese migrants crossing the English Channel[4]. Authorities are focusing on the dangers of the journey itself. They want to highlight the consequences of entering the UK through unofficial routes.
Prevention is the priority.
Officials are using the same digital spaces where misinformation often spreads. By reaching audiences in Vietnam directly, the campaign seeks to counter the narratives pushed by overseas networks. The goal is to stop the channel crossings before they begin.
The British government is now using its own digital campaigns in Vietnam to counter these narratives. Whether these targeted warnings can effectively disrupt the overseas networks remains a central question for UK authorities.
