Graphic for CDT's Elections & Democracy work. Light blue gradient background, with a white and light and dark blue colored ballot box – and a ballot with a digitized trail.

Election Disinfo

Disinformation about elections long predates the internet. But bad actors use the internet to spread falsehoods at a pace and scale that is unprecedented, including by taking advantage of micro-targeting and algorithmic amplification tools on social media. In a matter of minutes, rumors and intentionally misleading material can influence millions of people. Understanding the spread and impact of election disinformation requires an examination of how people get information online and how trusted officials can get their message out. CDT pursues policies and company practices that reduce the spread of election disinformation online while still preserving users’ fundamental rights to free expression.

PSA: Misinfo & Disinfo – Building a More Informed Public

CDT works to combat misinformation and disinformation, particularly as it impacts elections, targets marginalized communities, and engages in voter suppression.

Watch PSA

A still from an animated PSA by CDT, discussing how to build up trust in the face of election misinformation & disinformation. On top of an outline of the continental United States, a collection of growing and changing red and blue circles represent conversations happening across the country. A magnifying glass looks closer at a potential source of mis- / disinfo.

Online Voter Suppression: How to Spot & Counter

This short guide focuses on how to spot content on social media that can suppress voter participation, as well as how election officials can anticipate and counter election misinformation that could suppress voter participation in their jurisdiction.

Read Report