The anti-vax influencer plot that flopped

Who was behind a secret plot to pay social media stars to falsely discredit the Pfizer coronavirus vaccine?

Trending investigates an attempt to weaponise the power of influencer marketing in the online disinformation war over the pandemic.

In May this year a marketing agency contacted influencers in several countries with an extraordinary offer. A mystery client was offering big money if the influencers would use their YouTube and Instagram videos to spread lies about the health risks associated with the Pfizer vaccine. The anonymous sponsor wanted them to pretend they weren’t being paid so the fake message would appear genuine.

The plan failed spectacularly when several influencers went public and blew the whistle. But who was behind it and what were their motives?

Presenter: Charlie Haynes

Reporter: Flora Carmichael

Editor: Ed Main

Photo: French YouTuber Leo Grasset

Photo credit: Leo Grasset