The inventive ways in which people try to get around strict laws enforced by governments will never cease to amaze.
Ukrainians have been leaving fake Google reviews for Russian restaurants under instructions given by the decentralised hacktivist group Anonymous in its cyber-war against Russia.
Anonymous also added a template message in Russian for people to use, which means: "The food was great! Unfortunately, [Vladimir] Putin spoiled our appetites by invading Ukraine. Stand up to your dictator, stop killing innocent people!"
The restaurant review is one of a string of strange internet trends that have sprung up since the war in Ukraine broke out.
So why are Ukrainians resorting to leaving fake reviews?
Why are Ukrainians leaving fake restaurant reviews?
The purpose of leaving restaurant reviews is to tell Russians what is really happening in Ukraine.
Russia is attempting to keep tight control of the spread of information within its borders so is limiting the information given to its people.
Putin has attempted to justify his bloody invasion by calling for the 'denazification' of Ukraine and a need to remove the government. This is a false claim, but central to Putin's reasoning for war given to his supporters.
Some experts also argue that Putin's presidency depends partly on how the war in Ukraine goes, and while Russian troops now have control of cities like Kherson, it is believed that the invasion has not gone as well as expected.
Anonymous advised its followers: "Go to Google Maps. Go to Russia. Find a restaurant or business and write a review. When you write the review explain what is happening in Ukraine."
One review said: "While you’re enjoying your food, Russian soldiers are killing men, women & children in Ukraine – peaceful people just like you & your family. Putin makes Russian soldiers murderers & blackens Russia & its people’s name."
The hacktivist group declared cyber-war on Russia and has targeted state media with anti-war messaging, along with the takedown of some government sites.
It advised followers to be careful not to leave any personal information and make sure to vary the message templates given to post on the reviews, otherwise they may be easily filtered.
Why does Russia try and keep control of its internet?
Russia keeps strict control over the press and internet and quickly shuts down dissenting voices. The country's 'foreign agents law' lists anyone from activists to journalists - as well as non-governmental organisations - as a foreign agent if they dare to speak out against Putin's regime.
It is difficult for Russia to own every corner of the Russian internet and it appears that leaving reviews on Google is a useful way for activists to spread information about the bombs falling on Ukrainian cities, the massive displacement of fleeing refugees and the hundreds of troops killed on both sides.
The Ukrainian government claims that several thousand Russian troops have been killed in the invasion, though this is unverified.
This information would likely be harmful to Putin if it was broadcast in Russia on a wider scale.
