The Ministry of Digitalization of Romania is in talks with representatives from META, TikTok, and Google to enhance the swift detection and removal of deepfake content beyond the election period. Minister of Digitalization Bogdan Ivan noted that unofficial data suggests Romania is among the top three European countries most vulnerable to online monitoring.
Earlier this year in May, ahead of the local and European elections, the Ministry of Digitalization introduced the #NOFAKE platform where citizens can report suspicious content on social media and search engines. The ministry team verifies the information and if deemed illegal or misleading, it is forwarded through specific channels to Meta, Google, and TikTok for deletion.
While this communication channel was initially established to combat misinformation during elections, Romanians have actively reported numerous investment fraud schemes utilizing deepfake technology. Minister Ivan highlighted cases where images of public figures and high-ranking church leaders supposedly endorsing miracle cures surfaced. Such content was swiftly reported and removed from the platforms.
Bogdan Ivan intends to issue a new ministerial decree expanding the use of this mechanism beyond election periods. Information on suspicious content is also shared with relevant Romanian authorities such as the National Administration for Consumer Rights Protection or law enforcement agencies based on the nature of the case.
As of June 13, the ministry received 1585 messages through its platform. Out of these, 687 did not meet campaign criteria, while 898 were deemed relevant. Approximately half of the relevant messages pertained to fraudulent investment schemes or fake miracle cures aimed at deceiving the public.
The Ministry forwarded 439 messages to various platforms and continually reviews the process of collaboration with major platforms based on the types of complaints received. As a result of these efforts, 257 cases were resolved, leading to the removal of over 5,000 audio and video materials posing a threat to election integrity.
Major tech companies have acknowledged Romania as a unique case with a high number of fraud attempts. The Ministry of Digitalization plans to analyze these cases in conjunction with relevant authorities.
Dipfecta technology employs artificial intelligence to produce or alter video and audio content, making it indistinguishable from authentic material. Such content is often utilized to manipulate public perception, tarnish the reputation of political figures, or influence electoral processes.
*META and its products are classified as extremist, and their operations are banned in the Russian Federation.