The Use of Cognitive Biases in Russian Cyber Operations

Author

• Emma Manning, University of Mississippi Main CampusFollow

Date of Award

Summer 4-28-2026

Document Type

Undergraduate Thesis

Department

Psychology

First Advisor

Craig Morris

Second Advisor

Matthew Reyson

Third Advisor

Joshua First

Relational Format

MLA

Abstract

This thesis examines how Russia has employed reflexive control through cyber operations to influence decision-making in foreign states, focusing on disinformation campaigns during the 2014 annexation of Crimea and the 2016 U.S. presidential election. Reflexive control, a concept rooted in Russian military doctrine, seeks to shape an adversary's perceptions and decision-making by providing carefully crafted information that leads targets to make choices favorable to the initiator. This research argues that while the fundamental objectives of reflexive control have remained consistent, technological advances have significantly expanded Russia's ability to conduct operations in developing cyber domains.

Using qualitative analysis of open-source intelligence, government reports, academic literature, and historical works on Russian military doctrine, this study explores the relationship between cognitive processing, cyber capabilities, and information warfare. The analysis demonstrates how Russia exploits cognitive biases, heuristics, framing effects, and disinformation to manipulate public perception and influence political outcomes at both the individual and systemic levels. The case studies reveal that cyber-based reflexive control expands Russia's influence beyond its immediate geographic sphere, allowing it to shape political environments in both neighboring states and distant democracies.

By examining the evolution of reflexive control in the digital age, this thesis contributes to a broader understanding of modern cyber warfare and highlights vulnerabilities that democratic societies must address. The findings highlight the importance of recognizing cognitive manipulation as a critical element of cybersecurity and developing strategies to mitigate future foreign influence operations.

Recommended Citation

Manning, Emma, "The Use of Cognitive Biases in Russian Cyber Operations" (2026). Honors Theses. 3569.
https://egrove.olemiss.edu/hon_thesis/3569