Pro-Russian rebels in Ukraine learning social media 'difficult to control'

Since news broke two weeks ago that a Malaysian Airlines jet was likely brought down by a ground-to-air missile in eastern Ukraine, all eyes have been on the pro-Russian rebels who control the territory. Experts say the rebels' online conduct shows how social media can both help and hinder a political cause. "What’s happening in the eastern Ukraine really makes it clear that the smartphone in the hand is as important as a submachine gun,” says Charlie Beckett, director of the London School of Economics’ journalism think tank and head of its communications department. Read More http://ift.tt/1AGsJMz