Key Takeaways
- According to Microsoft, China, Iran, and Russia are actively working to undermine democratic processes through foreign influence.
- According to reports, Russia has turned its focus to the Harris-Walz campaign, which uses deepfake videos augmented by artificial intelligence.
- Even as Middle East tensions have increased, Iran has persisted in its influence activities.
According to Microsoft’s Threat Analysis Center, China, Iran, and Russia are stepping up their attempts to sabotage the 2024 U.S. election by utilizing leaked information and AI-enhanced deepfakes.
Russia, Iran, and China are continuing their efforts to undermine democratic processes through foreign influence, according to the Microsoft Threat Analysis Center (MTAC), with only two weeks to go before the 2024 U.S. Election.
These countries have increased the scope of their cyber-influence campaigns, using both conventional and artificial intelligence-based strategies to sway public opinion and impede the political process.
Iran
According to recent reports, Iranian cyber hackers sent non-public, stolen materials from the campaign of former President Trump to people connected to President Biden’s team and American media. The Trump-Vance campaign was the focus of a hack-and-leak operation in which three Iranian actors were also charged.
Even as Middle East tensions have increased, Iran has persisted in its influence activities. Under the guise of “Bushnell’s Men,” Iranian actors have urged Americans to abstain from voting because the candidates back Israel. This demonstrates even further how Iran uses contentious social topics to inflame tensions within the United States.
Russia
According to reports, Russia has turned its focus to the Harris-Walz campaign. AI-enhanced deepfake films are allegedly being used by the nation to disseminate false information against Vice President Harris and her running companion, Tim Walz. In a single day, one of these videos—which accused Harris of unlawful hunting in Zambia—got over 5 million views on X.
China
China has turned its attention to Republican candidates and congressional representatives who support anti-China measures further down the ballot. Their efforts have promoted opposition candidates and disseminated antisemitic propaganda against individuals such as Sen. Marsha Blackburn and Rep. Barry Moore. Despite the lack of broad participation, these activities show China’s persistent efforts to sway American politics.
MTAC calls for increased attention, especially in the crucial 48 hours leading up to and following the polls’ closing. To combat these dangers and safeguard election integrity, early detection and fact-checking are crucial. To protect democratic institutions, MTAC will keep an eye on attempts at foreign meddling and offer information.
