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What is ‘Milkshake Duck’?

How a fictional bird came to represent the dark side of internet fame. Plus, an investigation into so-called social media “cyborgs” trying to influence elections in Brazil.

"Milkshake Duck" is internet slang for an ordinary person who is briefly cheered, but then swiftly turned upon. We explain why the family of an 11-year-old boy is the latest example of the phenomenon. And where did the idea come from in the first place?

Also, BBC Brasil investigation has revealed that an army of so-called social media cyborgs tried to influence the country’s presidential election. BBC Brasil’s editor Silvia Salek has the lowdown.

And, a new chapter in the Harry Potter story - as written by robots.

Presenter: Jonathan Griffin
Producer: Will Yates

Caption: A picture of a duck / Credit:Getty Images

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23 minutes

Last on

Mon 18 Dec 201704:06GMT
BBC World Service Online & UK DAB/Freeview only

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  • Fri 15 Dec 201720:06GMT
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  • Mon 18 Dec 201704:06GMT
    BBC World Service Online & UK DAB/Freeview only

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    In-depth reporting on the world of social media