TikTok recently dismantled three small networks suspected of meddling in Romania’s elections, platform representatives revealed to EU lawmakers on December 3.
While relatively minor compared to global activity, the networks fueled allegations of manipulation, particularly around right-wing independent candidate Călin Georgescu’s surprising success.
Brie Pegum, TikTok’s global transparency head, reported that two networks were identified after the first round on November 24. One, with 78 accounts, promoted Georgescu; the other, with 12 accounts, backed Mircea Geoană, a candidate who didn’t advance. A third network tied to Kremlin-backed Sputnik was removed as part of routine sweeps.
Pegum noted the broader challenge, revealing that since September, TikTok has removed 66,000 fake accounts, blocked 260,000 spam posts, and dismantled fake channels impersonating political figures. Caroline Greer, TikTok’s Brussels lobbyist, highlighted the deployment of 95 Romanian moderators to combat election-related disinformation.
Romania’s Constitutional Court ordered a recount of first-round votes, validating results on December 2 and clearing the way for the second round. Georgescu will face pro-Europe liberal Elena Lasconi, with polls predicting his victory at 58% to Lasconi’s 42%.
The case underscores the growing role of social media in elections and the ongoing struggle to curb online interference.
