Disinformation and engagement in online far-right networks: moderators and interfaces

Abstract

This article investigates how disinformation circulates in far-right groups on WhatsApp and Telegram, emphasizing the joint action of human moderators and interface features for engagement purposes and for managing and mobilizing supporter bases. The study combines qualitative and quantitative methods, including a walkthrough description of platform affordances, an analysis of posting frequency, and the monitoring and discursive topic analysis of shared content. The results show that human moderators played a central role in managing narrative crises, while platform tools facilitated the maintenance of internal cohesion and the dissemination of narratives aligned with Bolsonarism. The study concludes that interfaces not only enable the circulation of false content but also act as active elements in the production and reinforcement of campaigns of fear and hostility, which are fundamental to the organization and activation of extremist militancy in Brazil. Overall, the article contributes to understanding the platformization of political militancy and disinformation, as well as the role of technical and human mediation in digital political radicalization.