KNAB Received Nine Reports of Possible Pre-Election Campaign Violations
Since the start of the pre-election period, KNAB has received nine signals about possible violations; in five cases rules were followed, others are under review.
The Corruption Prevention and Combating Bureau (KNAB) has received nine reports of potential pre-election campaign violations from the start of the official campaign period on June 6 until the end of this week. In five cases, the bureau found that regulations were complied with, including regarding campaigning on social platforms. The remaining reports are still being assessed.
KNAB reminds that strict rules apply during the pre-election period. Any paid campaign material whose visual design was created using artificial intelligence (AI) must contain a clear indication of AI use. This applies to video clips, images, and other visual materials, but not to text editing. If such a mark is missing, KNAB may ban further distribution of the material, after receiving an expert opinion from the Artificial Intelligence Center.
The bureau notes that typical AI manipulations may involve synthesizing candidates' voices or inserting their likeness into fake images or videos, imitating conversations or situations that never occurred. Voters are urged to critically evaluate information and verify its authenticity.
Additionally, the use of automated fake or anonymous social media accounts for any pre-election campaign activities is prohibited until the election day. KNAB will cooperate with the State Police to identify such accounts. If a violation is found, the affected person or KNAB itself may request the platform to stop the campaign; if the platform refuses, the case is referred to the Consumer Rights Protection Center, which can approach the European Commission.
Violations of the Pre-Election Campaign Law carry administrative liability: a warning or a fine up to 500 euros for individuals, and up to 7,100 euros for legal entities, including political organizations. Citizens are encouraged to report suspected violations via the online platform "Ziņo KNAB!" or its mobile app, the hotline 8000 2070, or email [email protected].
Paid campaign materials may only be placed with advertising service providers who submitted their price lists to KNAB and the National Electronic Mass Media Council (NEPLP) by May. Campaigning must be conducted in the official state language or an official EU language. Oversight is carried out by KNAB, NEPLP, and the State Language Center.
