Published on: October 25, 2024
As the 2024 US election nears, foreign adversaries, particularly Russia, China, and Iran, are ramping up efforts to influence voters, according to a report from Microsoft’s Threat Intelligence team. The report highlights a range of disinformation campaigns, fake videos, and hacking attempts aimed at disrupting the democratic process.
Russian actors have intensified their attacks, focusing on Vice President Kamala Harris. Fake videos have surfaced, including staged clips spreading disinformation about Harris. These campaigns, which include both AI-generated content and crude spoofs, aim to weaken her candidacy in favor of former President Donald Trump. Russia’s disinformation campaigns continue a trend seen in both the 2016 and 2020 elections, seeking to further polarize the US electorate.
Meanwhile, China has concentrated on undermining down-ballot Republican candidates critical of Beijing. The Chinese campaign, known as “Spamouflage,” uses fake social media accounts to malign figures like Alabama Rep. Barry Moore and Tennessee Sen. Marsha Blackburn. Microsoft analysts have flagged these campaigns as attempts to sow distrust and dissatisfaction with American democracy.
Iran, previously known for sending intimidating emails during the 2020 election, is now targeting election-related websites and media outlets. Microsoft’s report also mentions Iranian efforts to exploit divided opinions on the Israel-Hamas conflict, urging Americans to avoid the polls. Intelligence officials warn that this could be a precursor to more direct influence operations.
“History has shown foreign actors’ ability to rapidly distribute deceptive content can significantly impact public perception and electoral outcomes. With a particular focus on the 48 hours before and after Election Day, voters, government institutions, candidates, and parties must remain vigilant against deceptive and suspicious activity online,” the report warns.