Surfshark maintains support for Disinfo2026 conference despite government withdrawals

VPN provider Surfshark has reaffirmed its commitment to the Disinfo2026 conference, continuing its sponsorship after several government entities, including the EU’s diplomatic service, Canada, and Lithuania, withdrew their support. The withdrawals followed political pressure reportedly exerted by the Trump administration, which took issue with a panel discussion labeling the US a 'foreign information threat.' Despite the diplomatic fallout, which left organizers scrambling to cover sponsor logos on event signage, Surfshark emphasized the necessity of independent research and open debate in combating digital threats. During the conference, the company presented research highlighting the public's struggle to identify AI-generated content and bots. Surfshark maintained that cybersecurity and the fight against disinformation are global issues that transcend geopolitical sensitivities, asserting that independent forums are essential for building a safer internet and fostering public awareness regarding digital risks.