The rapid evolution of the online information environment has made disinformation a persistent and complex threat. In recent years, its role in driving illegal activities has become evident. Understanding how disinformation operates, spreads, and influences behaviour is now a critical priority for European police authorities.
To support this effort, the VIGILANT project has published the Disinformation Response Manual, developed by TNO (Netherlands Organisation for Applied Scientific Research). This manual translates academic insights into practical guidance for law enforcement and public authorities fighting the social impacts of disinformation.
This manual provides a clear, research-based framework for analysing how disinformation is created, disseminated, and amplified – and how it can be effectively countered. At its core is the C5 Interaction Model, which outlines five interconnected elements driving disinformation: Context, Causes, Content, Consequences, and the Cycle of Amplification.
The manual offers practical insights for identifying threats, assessing societal impact, and selecting appropriate interventions – from public awareness campaigns and content moderation to targeted police actions. It also explores the role of social norms, resilience-building, and online monitoring in reducing the spread and influence of false or harmful narratives.
Developed as part of the EU-funded VIGILANT project, the manual builds on findings from two key deliverables:
· D2.4 Causes, Contents and Consequences Model
· D5.2 Intervention Support Tool
You can read the full Disinformation Response Manual here.