Electoral manipulation through the dissemination of fake news on digital platformns

Abstract

The spread of false information has reached proportions that pose a risk to democracy, especially with the emergence of digital information and communication technology platforms. This article investigated the dissemination of fake news in digital media as a method of electoral manipulation, as well as proposing measures to combat this political strategy. The method used was literature review, using the indirect documentation research technique, applying the deductive approach, starting from a general rule for a specific case. Disinformation on digital platforms and its use on social networks to manipulate voters' perspectives and behaviors were discussed, as well as combating the spread of fake news in these digital spaces. It was concluded that the false notions present in digital media are created with the intention of promoting targeted and mass information, whose objective is to obtain a favorable political result, interfering in the decisions of an uncritical portion of the population. A diffuse protection network must be adopted to the electoral process, from repressive measures, using technology itself and imposing sanctions, to preventive measures, for example, digital education.