FBI Identifies Potential Threats To Upcoming Election

As Election Day approaches, the FBI alerts Americans to ongoing election fraud schemes targeting unsuspecting voters.

At a Glance

The FBI cautions about election-related scams ahead of Election Day.
Scammers employ deceptive tactics using candidate imagery and slogans.
Voters should remain cautious of unsolicited communications.
Authorities are investigating incidents threatening ballot security.

FBI Issues Warning on Election Fraud

The FBI has raised the alarm about election-related fraud schemes aimed at voters in the lead-up to Election Day. These schemes involve misinformation attempts, phishing attacks targeting personal information, and other fraudulent practices meant to illegitimately influence voter decisions. The agency emphasizes the importance of cybersecurity to combat these threats. Detailed warnings highlight four primary scams, including fake solicitations and misleading voter registration sites.

The FBI advises voters to exercise caution with all unsolicited communications. When receiving unknown links or information, verifying the authenticity of sources is critical. For example, checking PAC status on the Federal Election Commission website and voter registration through www.vote.gov can protect from fraud.

The Growing Threat of Misinformation

Social media platforms such as X, Instagram, and Facebook have seen a surge in false narratives about election fraud. Despite reduced fact-checking efforts by these platforms, the spread of disinformation concerning electoral processes has intensified. Influential foreign entities like Russia, China, and Iran have attempted to sway public opinion through subtle influence campaigns.

“What worries me most about this year is that we have a much more opaque window into the penetration of these lies, no matter where they come from,” said Nina Jankowicz.

Generative Artificial Intelligence (GAI) now further complicates the landscape, creating synthetic speech for robocalls to spread disinformation. This heightens the need for voters to remain vigilant against misleading narratives, especially among extremist groups and conspiracy theorists.

Today, @CISAgov, @ODNIgov, and @FBI released a statement attributing yesterday's fake video destroying ballots in PA elections to Russia. Local election officials already debunked this video. Election officials are the trusted source for election info. https://t.co/Fz14mRSXQG pic.twitter.com/uzoQmhnR1y

— Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (@CISAgov) October 25, 2024

Enhanced Security and Legal Measures

Authorities in Oregon and Washington have boosted security after two ballot drop boxes were maliciously set on fire. Widespread misinformation concerning mail-in ballot security dates back to 2020. Such threats have spurred efforts to protect public confidence in the electoral process. The U.S. Justice Department has embarked on a mission to safeguard voter rights as early voting ramps up ahead of November 5.

“Unfortunately, we’re in a place right now in some parts of America where people feel sufficiently frustrated, angered, and outraged by some of the misinformation that they hear,” said Paul Gronke, director of the Elections and Voting Information Center

The DOJ collaborates with the FBI and U.S. Attorneys to tackle election crimes and potential foreign interference. They encourage voters to report instances of violence, threats, or intimidation at polling places to local and Justice Department authorities.