The scandal erupted when Chilevision channel broadcast a report on the use of bots and trolls targeting political rivals of far-right leader Jose Antonio Kast.

Bots are automated software application that performs repetitive tasks, while trolls are individuals dedicated to posting false and provocative messages.

Chilevision reported that Patricio Gongora, an entrepreneur and board member of Canal 13, another influential television station, was behind this network. He was forced to resign.

In July, Matthei described the campaign against her as disgusting and dirty, which featured videos disseminated on anonymous accounts to imply she suffered from Alzheimer. She attributed the attacks to people close to Jose Antonio Kast’s Republican Party.

Questioned on the matter, Government spokesperson Camila Vallejo said this is a serious phenomenon brewing in the country and is already occurring in the rest of the world.

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