The FBI has warned of potential foreign influence operations that may spread disinformation to impact the results of the 2022 midterm elections in November.
According to Bleeping Computer, the FBI warned that foreign actors are actively spreading election infrastructure disinformation to manipulate public opinion, discredit the electoral process, sow discord and encourage a lack of trust in democratic processes and institutions.
The FBI said, “Foreign actors may intensify efforts to influence outcomes of the 2022 midterm elections by circulating or amplifying reports of real or alleged malicious cyber activity on election infrastructure.
“Additionally, these foreign actors may create and knowingly disseminate false claims and narratives regarding voter suppression, voter or ballot fraud, and other false information intended to undermine confidence in the election processes and influence public opinion of the elections’ legitimacy.”
The PSA added, “While some voter registration information is publicly available, the FBI and CISA have no information suggesting any cyber activity against U.S. election infrastructure has impacted the accuracy of voter registration information, prevented a registered voter from casting a ballot, or compromised the integrity of any ballots cast.”
The FBI and CISA have called on voters to carefully evaluate their sources of information in the lead-up to and after the midterm elections and to only trust info from trusted sources, including reputable news outlets and election officials.
Earlier this year, CISA said it was looking to bolster its efforts to fight disinformation leading up to the 2024 Presidential Election.
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