The 2024 U.S. elections are set for November 5th, and Microsoft, the American technology giant, has issued a warning about potential interference from state-funded actors. The company’s alert comes in response to increased online activity over recent weeks.
According to Microsoft, certain Iranian groups have established fake websites over the past few months to spread misinformation. These groups are attempting to gauge American voters’ sentiments by offering incentives such as freebies in exchange for personal information.
To enhance their reach, these actors are employing email phishing attacks that impersonate activists or federal entities. Their strategy involves baiting victims with deceptive URLs, which, when clicked, may prompt them to provide sensitive information in exchange for prizes like the latest Apple iPhone 15 or gift coupons for online retailers like Amazon.
In some cases, clicking these malicious links can lead to the installation of harmful software on the victim’s device. This malware can activate upon reboot, potentially locking the device or erasing its data.
Iran, which recently joined the United Nations Mission, has denied any involvement in election interference, asserting that it has no interest in influencing foreign elections but seeks only to lift international trade sanctions.
As the world looks forward to the upcoming debate between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump on August 15th in Washington County, Maryland, there are concerns that certain parties may attempt to disrupt or delay this event through digital means.
In response, White House cybersecurity teams and the Election Commission are actively working to prevent and address potential threats to ensure the integrity of the election process.
For context, the 2016 U.S. election was scrutinized for potential foreign interference, leading then-President Barack Obama to launch an investigation in January 2017. However, the results of this investigation were not disclosed after Donald Trump assumed the presidency later that month.
