TikTok has revealed that it shut down a network of fake news accounts which were artificially amplifying narratives favourable to the Labour Party during Malta’s 2026 general election campaign.According to Times of Malta, nine accounts created in Malta were identified as part of a coordinated network targeting Maltese users. The profiles reportedly presented themselves as news accounts while pushing pro-Labour narratives.The nine accounts had a combined 433 followers when TikTok removed them, with the platform classifying the activity as a “covert influence operation”.However, TikTok did not identify who was behind the network or establish any link between those operating it and the Labour Party, any political organisation or office-holder.The Labour Party said the accounts were not among its official social media channels and stressed that its pages are managed by party officials. It also argued that the network had negligible reach compared to its official channels.TikTok defines covert influence operations as coordinated and inauthentic networks designed to mislead users or its systems in an attempt to influence discussions around major social issues, including elections.The revelation follows concerns raised during Malta’s election campaign over anonymous TikTok accounts using AI-generated material to target political figures, with PN leader Alex Borg among those frequently targeted.What do you make of TikTok uncovering the network following Malta’s general election?•