Dirty people, those Russians...
In some ways we have made the world smaller, and thus made it easier for the same types of wannabe dictators who have always been around. Propaganda is now global. Electronic voting has centralized the opportunities for deception and fraud. Privacy is now only available to those who live somewhat off the grid, or who have the technical savvy to hide themselves.
As has always been the case, we are being victimized by the frailties of human nature. Although it has become harder for me to do, it is increasingly clear that the divine advice to not make your treasures in this world is absolute wisdom.