The pre-released data described vote shares in state legislative elections in Saarland, Saxony and Thuringia.

Germany bans early release of exit polls for fear that it might persuade people to change their minds about how to vote, or spur canvassers to summon voters late in the day.

Ralf Burmester, a lawyer, said election officers could fine offenders up to 50,000 euros ($72,000), since elections might not be deemed fair and free if the data leaked before time.

Roderich Egeler, federal election commissioner, warned recently that a leak of exit data could even torpedo the September 27 federal election this year.