Elections
Elections shape our democracy... here, you can explore how digital disinformation affects voting, what counts as an electoral offence, and how Real411 works to protect the integrity of our elections.
Join the movement to protect South Africa's 2026 Elections
In an era dominated by the constant buzz of social media, where bots, likes, and shares shape our perceptions, discerning the truth from fiction can be a daunting task. What may seem like a straightforward fact often conceals a web of propaganda, meticulously designed to influence elections and manipulate public opinion. This insidious threat is what we call DIGITAL DISINFORMATION.
Digital disinformation encompasses false, inaccurate, or misleading information strategically crafted and presented to sow discord and cause public harm to society.
See something that concerns you?
Help Protect
Our Democracy
Report hate speech, disinformation and harassment and help build a safer digital community.
Keep Elections Honest with PadRe Ad Compare
This tool is designed to look at an image you submit on WhatsApp, and compare it to legitimate political adverts in our database.
We can help combat disinformation related to Elections by spotting and reporting ads that have been manipulated. By working together and getting friends and family to submit suspected manipulated political party advert images to PAdRe Ad Compare, you can help keep the General Elections free, fair and credible.
Latest Election Related Outcomes
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How We Work with the IEC
Safeguarding the Integrity of our Elections
As we navigate the ever-evolving landscape of digital media and prepare for upcoming South African General Elections, it is crucial to recognise the dangers that disinformation poses to the very core of our democratic process. Disinformation can polarise communities, mislead voters, and erode trust in our electoral institutions. With the rise of AI, it has become even easier to create and spread misleading content.
Real411 was created with a singular purpose: to empower every citizen with the means to combat digital disinformation, and our commitment remains steadfast as we support the integrity of South Africa's democratic process. When you report an instance of digital disinformation to Real411, you are not just raising awareness; you are also initiating action and helping to safeguard the integrity of elections.
Real411 is the official platform for reporting misinformation and disinformation in the lead-up to elections. All election-related complaints are shared with the Electoral Commission's Directorate for Electoral Offences (IEC). Real411 submits its independent outcomes to the IEC, which, with its integrity and impartiality, carefully assesses each case and ensures that appropriate measures are taken.
Read the IEC Framework of Co-operation
Read Now
Partnering with Bowmans as our official pro bono partner brings world-class legal minds to Real411, ensuring swift, expert review of online harms during this election season.
At Real411, Our Mission is Clear and Unwavering
We are dedicated to upholding the very essence of democracy and the principles of fair and just elections. We are committed to preserving the integrity of our electoral process.
Submit an Election Related Complaint
Report Disinformation
Consider the Following Tips and Guidelines
as Digital Citizens:
Want to Make a Difference Beyond Voting?
Join our community of reviewers helping to identify misinformation, hate speech, and harmful online content during South Africa's 2026 Elections.
Elections Disinformation Archive
Browse the complaints Real411 reviewed during past South African election cycles.
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