Brazil Electoral Justice faces disinformation and threats to staff

Disinformation and targeted attacks against electoral officials remain significant challenges to the Brazilian democratic process. Despite stricter regulations implemented by the Superior Electoral Court (TSE), the rapid spread of fake news via social media and artificial intelligence continues to influence voters and distort public debate.

A study by Instituto DataSenado indicates that 81% of the Brazilian population believes false news can directly influence election results, with 72% of respondents reporting contact with misleading information on social media in the six months prior to the survey.

In addition to digital disinformation, the TSE has reported a surge in threats, intimidation, and doxing directed at electoral workers and their families. Following the first round of the 2026 elections, the court identified approximately 30,000 instances of hate speech, veiled threats, and personal data exposure on platforms such as X and Meta. In response, the TSE has engaged the Federal Police and the Public Ministry to investigate these incidents and has implemented security and psychological support measures for affected staff.