Election Season Creates a Surge in Fake News
As Germany approaches its federal elections, the spread of fake news and AI-generated propaganda is on the rise. Recently, TikTok videos claiming to depict hundreds of thousands marching in support of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party have gained significant traction online. However, a thorough investigation by German media outlet Correctiv has revealed that these videos are tampered with, as confirmed by a Euroverify analysis.
Deceptive Footage Misleading the Public
The manipulated TikTok videos feature crowd scenes paired with captions asserting they showcase massive pro-AfD gatherings. A simple search using terms like “pro-AfD” and “protest” reveals a plethora of similar deceptive footage. Euroverify utilized AI image detectors and found that while the videos are not all AI-generated, the images originate from unrelated events, including those opposing the AfD rather than supporting it.
Audio Manipulations Heighten Deception
In some instances, AI audio detection indicated that soundtracks in the videos had been modified. Several clips feature an AI-generated recording of a crowd chanting “east, east, east,” which does not reflect typical AfD supporter chants. These alterations are misleading, particularly as Thuringia and Saxony are known as strongholds for the far-right party.
Counter-Protests Expose the Truth
One video in question features footage from a January 2024 protest in Hamburg, during which tens of thousands rallied against the far-right AfD. The protests erupted following the uncovering of a secret meeting between far-right factions discussing the relocation of millions of immigrants should they come into power. The trending TikTok clips starkly contrast with the reality of recent public gatherings.
AfD Supporters Fall Short of Claims
While tens of thousands protested against the Christian Democratic Union’s leader Friedrich Merz’s suggestions for stricter migration laws last weekend, no such massive pro-AfD events have taken place recently. In December, only 3,500 supporters attended an AfD memorial rally, significantly fewer than the hundreds of thousands suggested in viral videos. Authorities have issued warnings about the growing threat of misinformation, particularly in light of a potential disinformation campaign from Moscow aiming to destabilize the electoral process.
SOURCE: Ref Image from GMA Network
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