Behind the scenes of the ‘shadow cell’ at the General Directorate of Communication: A cyber-army to steer public opinion in Algeria

Uncovering a secret cell within the General Directorate of Communication

In developments that have sparked widespread controversy, leaked data from within the halls of power in Algeria has revealed the existence of a cyber-intelligence cell operating under the highest levels of secrecy, based on the third floor of the General Directorate of Communication. This cell, known in narrow circles as the “cell for the defense of the interests of the Presidency,” operates away from traditional oversight, as access to its floor is prohibited even to presidential staff, pursuant to a secret presidential decree not published in the Official Gazette.

Cell structure and technical mechanisms

The cell consists of 15 specialists, including cybercrime experts from internal security and technical security officers from the Ministry of National Defense. The cell relies on a very sophisticated digital infrastructure, including what is known as “Phone Farming”, where 7,344 fake accounts are operated via thousands of smartphones (Redmi, Huawei, Realme) that have been modified by removing batteries and connecting them to cooling systems and industrial servers to ensure 24/7 continuous operation.

The cell uses complex techniques to bypass Facebook algorithms, such as “Rotation IP” and “Android Debug Bridge”, allowing it to launch coordinated attacks to report regime opponents, distort public discourse, and manipulate public opinion on sensitive issues, while ensuring the fake accounts remain protected from bans thanks to advanced network camouflage.

Management and massive budgets

The cell is under the direct supervision of Mohamed Tebboune, assisted by Abdellatif Belkaim, with work divided into three continuous shifts to cover the entire day, with detailed periodic reports filed on every detail discussed on social media platforms. The expansion of these operations has led to significant financial pressures; reports indicate that Mohamed Tebboune succeeded in convincing his father to increase the Presidency’s budget for 2026 to 107.7 billion dinars, up from 74.4 billion in 2025, to cover the costs of the technology and equipment used.

Impact on the public sphere

These “electronic brigades” act as a pressure tool to steer popular sentiment, especially during major events, as they handle the process of “cyber-harassment” against anyone who criticizes the President or his family. These leaks reveal the extent of the overlap between military/security technology and directed digital content creation, raising major questions about freedom of expression in Algeria and the risks associated with using public resources to conduct “digital wars” against both citizens and opponents.