A 2010 report by Technology for Transparency suggests that the so-called fifth estate, or - networked citizen media platforms that rely on the volunteer contributions of citizens‖ can not only fill the role of watchdog, but also enhance the rate and scope of investigation once provided by professional journalists. These platforms, enabled by online networks, technologies and social media are engaging Internet and mobile phone users to demand transparency and making corrupt behaviour risky for public and private sector actors alike.

Social media will undoubtedly play a central role in combating corruption in the twenty-first century. Such technologies have enabled booms in the quantity, quality and speed of communication, as their widespread use has granted political voice to millions, motivating masses and reinvigorating efforts to fight corruption. The influence of well-known and emerging social media platforms is expanding. Political activists, campaigners and civil society organisations are in an unprecedented position to leverage their impact.