The Romanian Intelligence Service (SRI) has confirmed the presence of domestic bot farms, troll operations and fake social media accounts within the country but asserts that these activities do not pose a threat to national security.

The issue came to light following allegations that presidential candidate Mircea Geoana was benefiting from bot networks ahead of the election later this year. 

According to a statement provided to Romania’s parliamentary oversight committee, the SRI ruled out any foreign interference, indicating that the phenomenon is solely local.

“To date, no specific elements have been identified that would suggest propaganda or disinformation campaigns directed by hostile foreign actors against Romania,” the SRI stated.

The intelligence service emphasised that the fake accounts and bot farms — used to amplify the popularity of certain candidates or target rivals — are having a limited impact and do not undermine national security. Information regarding these activities has been passed to the Ministry of Internal Affairs for further action, and SRI noted that social media platforms may remove accounts that breach their terms of service.

Romania’s presidential election will be held on November 24, with a likely runoff scheduled for December 8.

Geoana, previously leading in polls but now trailing behind Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu, was accused by rival candidates, including Ciolacu, of using bots to influence the campaign. Additionally, candidate Elena Lasconi alleged that Geoană met with a known hacker leader, though he has denied all claims.

In a related effort to curb such activities, Romania’s Digitalisation Ministry announced last week that it has blocked numerous accounts identified as part of coordinated campaigns to favour particular candidates, working in cooperation with Meta and other social platforms.