Romanian president warns against fake news, attempts to influence voting

President of Romania Nicusor Dan, at a TV programme broadcast on a private channel, has discussed the dangers of the current electoral campaign, highlighting the existence of cyber-attacks, disinformation and attempts to buy votes. He reiterated that Romania provided expertise and support to Moldova in combating cyber-attacks.

“We are in an electoral campaign and I respect the right of citizens to choose their destiny. I do not want to influence people's votes, but the realities concerning cyber-attacks and attempts to buy votes must be known,” declared Nicusor Dan.

He added that recent incidents, such as the cloning of a Romanian television station's website, had spread fake news to a large number of people, affecting the correct information of voters.

The Romanian president noted that there are two types of campaigns: some conducted in good faith and others based on blatant disinformation or even vote buying.

“Romania has expertise in cybersecurity and collaborates with the European Union and Moldova to prevent attacks on public institutions and share know-how regarding incitement to protests,” he also said.

Nicusor Dan also dismissed rumors that he had won the mandate with votes from Moldova.

“This is false. The margin by which I won was much greater than the votes from Moldova, and there are no suspicions of irregularities. The reports were signed by representatives of all parties.”

The Romanian head of state stressed that citizens, busy with work and family, do not always have time to delve into political information, which makes them vulnerable to disinformation.

“People see that their lives are affected by politics and are tempted to believe everything circulating in the public space,” Dan concluded.

The president of Romania paid a visit to Chisinau on August 31, where he participated in more events dedicated to the Romanian language.