Ahead of the October 3-4 elections in the Czech Republic, hundreds of anonymous TikTok accounts are actively spreading pro-Russia narratives and supporting radical political parties, according to the non-governmental organization Online Risk Labs.

Online Risk Labs identified 286 TikTok accounts involved in this activity, which collectively generate between 5 to 9 million views weekly, surpassing the reach of mainstream political figures.

The supported parties include the far-right SPD and the far-left Stacilo!, both of which oppose NATO and the European Union, with some candidates possibly unaware of the support they are receiving.

There are concerns that these accounts promote candidates without their knowledge, raising alarms about covert influence operations during the election.

Current polls show the opposition ANO party, led by former Prime Minister Andrej Babis, leading in support, but forming a majority may require coalition support from radical parties like SPD and Stacilo!, which are being promoted by these TikTok accounts.

Czech authorities, including the telecoms watchdog CTU, have received complaints about these TikTok accounts and are in contact with TikTok, while investigations are ongoing amid concerns over social media's impact on election integrity.

These accounts are believed to promote radical entities and influence public opinion during the election period, often supporting parties like the far-right SPD and the far-left Stacilo!, both advocating for Czech withdrawal from NATO and the EU.

The activity of these accounts is under scrutiny by Czech authorities and the European Commission, highlighting the broader concern over foreign influence and misinformation during the election.

Approximately 25% of Czechs use TikTok, a smaller proportion than Romania, where social media interference involving Russia led to the annulment of a presidential election last year.