The news radio station requested TikTok to post seven such ads on election day on March 15. Of those, the Chinese social media app approved six.
According to BNR the fake ads contain calls for lower turnout and violence. The messages contained texts such as “the ballot boxes are closed”, “Rutte must fuck off, storm the House of Representatives!” and “to Kaag’s house with torches, set on fire!”.
The publication of the advertisements has BNR stopped following the channel asked questions to TikTok. The Dutch department of the social medium informed the channel in a response that the advertisements should never have been approved. TikTok also promised to do more to ensure security on Election Day.
Why TikTok initially approved the ads is unclear. The medium is not open regarding the moderation policy.
