The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) have highlighted a growing concern about the spread of false claims related to voting. The announcement, titled “Just So You Know: False Claims of Hacked Voter Information Likely Intended to Sow Distrust of U.S. Elections,” aims to educate the public on how disinformation tactics are being used to manipulate perceptions and undermine trust in the U.S. electoral process.
The announcement comes amid increasing concerns over cybersecurity and the integrity of elections, particularly with the 2024 election cycle approaching. Both the FBI and CISA have observed a troubling trend where foreign actors and cybercriminals propagate misleading information about alleged breaches in U.S. voter registration databases. These claims often exaggerate or fabricate details about voter information hacking to discredit the electoral system and erode public trust.
FBI and CISA Stresses Upon Voting Disinformation
CISA Senior Advisor Cait Conley emphasized the importance of skepticism regarding such claims. This PSA is designed to inform the public that reports of compromised election infrastructure, such as a hacked voter registration database, should be scrutinized. These allegations are frequently used by foreign entities to influence public opinion and disrupt confidence in our democratic institutions,” Conley stated.
The FBI, through its Cyber Division, has been actively investigating attempts by malicious actors to interfere with U.S. elections. Deputy Assistant Director Cynthia Kaiser explained, “Our investigations have shown that these actors often attempt to undermine public trust by exaggerating claims about obtaining U.S. voter information. We urge the public to critically assess any reports of hacked voter information and understand that much of the voter registration data is publicly accessible.
The issue of voter information hacking has become a significant point of concern, especially as misinformation campaigns progresses. The FBI and CISA work collaboratively with federal, state, local, and territorial election officials to safeguard the voting process and enhance the resilience of U.S. elections. Their efforts include providing support, sharing critical information, and debunking false claims related to voting hacking.
Disinformation and Personal Agendas
The rise of disinformation regarding voter information hacking has prompted both agencies to increase their outreach and educational efforts. They stress that while voter registration information is indeed public, the integrity and security of the election process remain intact. The goal is to prevent misinformation from gaining traction and to ensure that the American public maintains a robust confidence in the democratic system.
As the 2024 elections draw nearer, the vigilance of both the FBI and CISA underscores their commitment to protecting electoral integrity. By informing the public about the tactics used by disinformation agents and encouraging a critical approach to sensational claims, they aim to fortify the trust in the U.S. election process.
The joint public service announcement (PSA) from the FBI and CISA is an important reminder for the public to critically assess any claims of election-related hacking. This PSA highlights the necessity of skepticism towards unverified allegations, especially those alleging breaches of voter information. Both agencies emphasize their ongoing commitment to addressing and debunking false narratives about voting hacking. Their work is focused on safeguarding the security and integrity of U.S. elections.
For the public, it is crucial to stay well-informed and discerning about the sources of information related to election security. As misinformation can easily spread, relying on verified and authoritative sources is essential for understanding the true state of U.S. elections. The FBI and CISA’s efforts are aimed at ensuring that the electoral process remains transparent and secure, reinforcing public confidence and countering disinformation campaigns effectively.
Role of the FBI and CISA in Elections
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) play critical roles in ensuring the security and integrity of U.S. elections. Their coordinated efforts involve working closely with federal, state, local, and territorial election officials to provide essential services and information aimed at enhancing the security of election processes and maintaining the resilience of the electoral system.
To support their mission, both the FBI and CISA encourage the public to report any suspicious or criminal activities, such as ransomware attacks, to the FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) at http://www.ic3.gov. Cyber incidents can also be reported directly to CISA by calling 1-844-Say-CISA (1-844-729-2472), emailing [email protected], or reporting online at cisa.gov/report.
For additional assistance and resources, individuals can visit CISA’s Stop Ransomware page for guidance on tackling ransomware, explore the CISA #Protect2024 initiative for protection against various election-related risks, and utilize Protected Voices for resources on defending against online foreign influence operations, cyber threats, and federal election crimes. These resources are designed to help individuals and organizations stay informed and prepared against potential threats to election security.