In today's interconnected world, information serves as the foundation of trust. Brazil, with its expansive digital environment, stands at a pivotal moment where the flow of information can either bring people together or lead to division. As the fifth-largest internet market globally, with 94% of Brazilians accessing the internet daily and 50% relying on social media for news, the country is particularly vulnerable to the rapid spread of misinformation, especially in politically sensitive times.
The implications are significant: over 75% of Brazilians perceive fake news about politicians as a threat to democracy, and more than 80% advocate for the swift removal of false content from social media platforms. During the 2022 elections, misinformation spiked dramatically, with fake news circulation increasing sharply between the first and second rounds. Social media platforms like Twitter saw a 57% rise in fake messages, while Telegram and WhatsApp experienced increases of 23% and 36%, respectively.
With the 2026 elections approaching, this trend highlights the pressing need for effective govtech solutions to combat misinformation and uphold the integrity of democracy.
Harnessing AI for trust and integrity
In response to these challenges, advanced AI-driven tools from SOSA Solutions's portfolio emerge as vital allies in the fight against misinformation. We equip Brazilian public entities with essential capabilities designed to detect and counter misinformation at scale:
1- Real-Time Monitoring: Continuously scans digital platforms for misleading narratives and unusual activity patterns, enabling early detection.
2- Bot and Fake Profile Detection: Identifies networks of inauthentic accounts that distort public perception, allowing organizations to maintain a credible information flow.
3- Language and Intent Analysis: Utilizes natural language processing to interpret tone, sentiment, and intent—providing critical insights for timely responses.
These tools have demonstrated effectiveness in real-world applications. For instance, an analysis of online discussions revealed that 27% of profiles discussing the Liberal Party on Twitter were identified as fake, spreading harmful content that reached approximately 38,000 views. Similarly, another analysis found that 27% of profiles discussing Bolsonaro were coordinated fake accounts, posting simultaneously to create the illusion of widespread support. Such findings underscore the importance of proactive detection and timely response to prevent manipulation of public opinion.
Best practice: a synergy of solutions and services
Beyond our specific technological offerings, SOSA Solutions supports the Brazilian government and businesses by providing tailored innovation strategies, including technology scouting, validation, and integration.
By leveraging govtech, we assist governments and institutions not just in sourcing the right technologies but also in adopting and adapting them swiftly to tackle critical issues like misinformation. Our consulting expertise guides every stage—from selection to integration—maximizing the efficacy of SOSA Solutions and our extensive technology portfolio.
When necessary, we establish specialized innovation hubs to address specific national challenges. For example, our collaboration with the Singapore government led to the launch of Hatch, a public safety hub dedicated to exploring and supporting solutions from various industries to meet safety objectives. These hubs empower governments to leverage technology for specific challenges, facilitating rapid access to relevant innovations and fostering collaboration with industry experts.
By integrating advanced technology, consulting services, and strategic innovation frameworks, we empower Brazilian institutions to confront misinformation at its core. Together with Brazil's progressive leaders, we are transforming challenges into opportunities to bolster public trust and strengthen the foundations of democracy.