TikTok shares measures to combat misinformation ahead of Feb 8 elections

• TikTok to be an authentic source of reliable, factual information.
• Platform collaborates with globally-recognised AFP as fact-checker.
• AFP’s assessments to provide valuable input for appropriate action.

As Pakistan’s parliamentary election is set to take place this week on February 8, TikTok — a short video-sharing app — has shared its efforts to combat misinformation and uphold electoral integrity on its platform.

The latest initiatives of the video-sharing site demonstrate its unwavering commitment to maintaining a safe, authentic, and reliable information environment during this important period.

In a statement released on Monday, TikTok Pakistan said: “As the Pakistan General Election nears, TikTok is dedicated to ensuring that its platform remains a source of joy and creativity, while also being an authentic source of reliable and factual information.”

The platform continues to support its community in Pakistan and globally, fostering a digital environment where authentic content thrives and misinformation is diligently combated.

Building on its robust global framework to combat misinformation, TikTok is collaborating with internationally recognised fact-checking organisation Agence France-Presse (AFP) as its fact-checker to specifically address the Pakistani electoral context.

Additionally, it is also working closely with local community partner organisations in Pakistan to ensure platform’s integrity. These partnerships enable TikTok to identify potential misinformation, take action on it, and share accurate information with its community around important events.

The video-sharing platform’s fact-checking partners do not moderate content on the platform, but their assessments provide valuable input which helps TikTok take the appropriate action that upholds its Community Guidelines.

The China-owned video application’s strategy includes innovative product features aimed at enhancing user awareness and participation in maintaining platform integrity.

“TikTok has launched the Pakistan Election Center on the platform, which is a dedicated hub, available both in English and Urdu, that will direct users to authoritative information on the election, including voting procedures and locations,” a statement by the platform read.

It added that its easy-to-use reporting tools, too, will empower users to easily identify and report potentially misleading content. “This user-centric approach fosters a vigilant and responsible community, crucial during the election period.”

The statement added that the platform is committed to raising awareness among its users, by providing educational content and in-app guides.

“These initiatives are designed to equip the community with the necessary skills to discern credible information, thereby reinforcing informed participation in the electoral process,” it added.

Enforcement of TikTok’s Community Guidelines, available both in English and Urdu, is a key component of its misinformation combat strategy, the statement mentioned.

“The platform employs a multi-pronged approach, including the removal of guideline-violating content, redirecting search results to authoritative sources, and reducing the discoverability of unverified information.

“This comprehensive approach ensures that the platform remains a safe space, free from harmful election-related misinformation.”

In its statement, TikTok stated that transparency and collaboration are at the core of its efforts. “By working closely with experts, safety advisory councils, and civil society organisations, TikTok enhances its policy framework and ensures the elevation of reliable information sources within the app.”

This collaborative ethos underscores TikTok’s commitment to being a responsible social media platform, it added.