Social media has long been a double-edged sword for national security professionals. On one hand, platforms like X and LinkedIn allow cleared professionals to network, share thought leadership, and stay up-to-date on trends in technology and global events. On the other hand, these platforms have become increasingly vulnerable to malign influence campaigns, bot infiltration, and misinformation efforts—posing risks not only to individuals but also to national security.
Given these challenges, it may be time for cleared professionals to reevaluate their social media strategies and consider alternative platforms like BlueSky. While previous alternatives, such as Mastodon, failed to gain critical mass, the rapidly evolving digital landscape makes it worth reconsidering the potential of emerging platforms.
The Rise of Malign Influence and Platform Vulnerabilities
In recent years, malign actors—including nation-states like Russia, China, and Iran—have capitalized on the accessibility of major social media platforms. Their efforts range from overt propaganda campaigns to more subtle infiltration, including fake accounts designed to manipulate public discourse or surveil targeted individuals. For cleared professionals, this is more than a theoretical concern. Exposure to hostile influence campaigns could jeopardize personal and professional integrity, especially as adversaries become more adept at exploiting online vulnerabilities.
Moreover, bot infiltration of major platforms like X has reached unprecedented levels. Bots are no longer limited to spam or low-effort propaganda. They are now sophisticated enough to impersonate real users, amplify divisive narratives, and even engage in credential harvesting. For professionals in sensitive fields, the risk of inadvertently engaging with these accounts—whether through debates, likes, or reposts—can have serious implications.
Why BlueSky and Other Alternatives Are Worth Considering
BlueSky, a decentralized social media platform, offers a promising alternative for professionals concerned about the pitfalls of mainstream platforms. Developed by a team with ties to the original creators of Twitter, BlueSky aims to rebuild the social media experience with greater transparency, user control, and resilience to manipulation.
For cleared professionals, BlueSky offers several advantages:
1. Decentralization
Unlike traditional platforms, BlueSky operates on a decentralized protocol. This structure makes it inherently more resistant to coordinated bot activity and centralized censorship. Users retain greater control over their data and the content they engage with.
2. Focus on Authentic Engagement
Early adopters of BlueSky report a smaller, more engaged community compared to the sprawling user base of larger platforms. While this limits reach, it also fosters higher-quality interactions—an important consideration for professionals seeking meaningful connections rather than viral distractions.
3. Early Adoption Opportunities
While it’s still in its infancy, BlueSky presents an opportunity for cleared professionals to establish themselves early on. As the platform grows, early adopters will be well-positioned to shape its culture and norms, potentially influencing how national security discussions evolve in this space.
Lessons Learned from Mastodon
Skeptics may point to Mastodon, a previous attempt at decentralized social networking, as evidence that alternatives can’t succeed. However, the failure of Mastodon wasn’t due to a lack of demand for alternatives—it was a matter of poor user experience and insufficient critical mass. BlueSky has already addressed some of these challenges, prioritizing intuitive design and interoperability to attract a broader user base.
Additionally, the landscape has changed since Mastodon’s rise and fall. Public trust in major platforms continues to erode, and demand for alternatives is growing. BlueSky isn’t just a niche experiment—it represents a potential turning point in how professionals approach online engagement.
Practical Steps for Cleared Professionals
Transitioning to alternative platforms doesn’t mean abandoning mainstream ones altogether. Instead, consider a hybrid approach:
1. Explore BlueSky
Create a profile, observe the platform’s dynamics, and engage with relevant communities. Even a limited presence can provide a valuable backup in case mainstream platforms become untenable.
2. Maintain Vigilance on Major Platforms
Until alternatives like BlueSky reach critical mass, continue using traditional platforms—but with an increased focus on operational security and skepticism of unfamiliar accounts.
3. Advocate for Smarter Social Media Use
Encourage colleagues and professional networks to diversify their online presence. The more cleared professionals who engage with secure, alternative platforms, the more viable these spaces will become.
For cleared professionals, the stakes of social media are higher than ever. With adversaries exploiting vulnerabilities in major platforms, exploring alternatives like BlueSky is no longer just a forward-thinking strategy—it’s a matter of professional security. By diversifying their online presence and adopting platforms designed with transparency and resilience in mind, cleared professionals can better protect themselves while fostering a healthier digital environment for national security discussions.
