Cybersecurity

U.S. Navy Scientists Are Exploring the Weaponization of 'Cute'

The Office of Naval Research is studying how emotions prompt people to share information on the internet, particularly how the perception of “cuteness” increases the likelihood of sharing. The goal is to be able to anticipate the spread and reach of cute content—from cat memes to anime—especially if that content is paired with a dark message.

One of the most controversial developments in the age of the internet is the rise of “clickbait,” or manipulating headlines to get reader attention. Getting people to share negative content is easy. What makes people share positive content, including “cute” content, is another story. The ONR is partnering with academic experts studying how people perceive cute and how cuteness affects sharing on the internet.

Even ISIS, the Naval Science and Technology Future Force reports, used images of its fighters with cats, “probably a reference to a companion of the Prophet, Abu Huraira, who was fond of cats.” Bad actors, as NST calls them, use cats and other cute critters to make a negative or divisive message more likely to be shared or even perceived in a more positive light.