Elections Alberta warns of voter registration misinformation ahead of October referendum
The agency says rumours that voter records have been deleted are false, urging Albertans to rely on official sources rather than online posts as the Oct. 19 referendum approaches.
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Elections Alberta is warning residents about a surge of online misinformation targeting voter registrations and its Voterlink system ahead of the October 19 referendum.
Chief Electoral Officer Gordon McClure says rumours suggesting voter records have been deleted are false. "Elections Alberta would like to reassure Albertans their information in Voterlink is safe and secure," McClure said in a statement. "If you have voted in previous provincial elections, and have not moved or changed your name, you are likely registered to vote."
Elections Alberta said in a press release on August 14 that there has been a "significant volume of social media misinformation relating to voter registrations and Elections Alberta's online Voterlink tool." The agency says misinformation campaigns typically intensify before major votes and can intimidate voters or discourage participation.
Voterlink allows electors to register, check their status, or update their information, but cannot delete registrations. Because it uses only last name, date of birth, and postal code, the system may sometimes require additional information to confirm someone's identity. Those still unable to confirm their status can call Elections Alberta at 780-427-7191.
Albertans are urged to rely on Elections Alberta's website and other credible sources rather than online posts. Guidance on spotting misinformation is available through Elections Alberta's integrity resources.
Albertans will head to the polls on October 19 to answer 10 questions, including one related to separation from Canada.
The facts
When is Alberta's referendum?
Alberta's referendum is on October 19, 2026.
What can Elections Alberta's Voterlink system do?
Voterlink allows electors to register, check their status, and update their information, but cannot delete registrations.
How many questions will Albertans answer in the referendum?
Albertans will answer 10 questions, including one related to separation from Canada.
What information does Voterlink require to confirm identity?
Voterlink uses last name, date of birth, and postal code to confirm identity, though additional information may sometimes be required.
