– Microsoft reported that Iran is accelerating its cyber activities that appear aimed at influencing the 2024 US election.
– In June, Iranian hackers targeted a high-ranking official from a presidential campaign with a phishing email. They also attempted to access the account of a former presidential candidate.
– Iranian groups have set up fake news sites posing as US outlets to target different sides of the political spectrum with misleading information.
– They have also impersonated US activists online potentially to lay the groundwork for future influence operations.
– Microsoft warns these activities are likely to increase closer to the election. However, Iran denies plans to interfere in the US election.
– The report also found Russia continuing its disinformation efforts and China taking advantage of current events, but that their impact has been limited so far.
– US intelligence officials agree that Iran, Russia and China pose ongoing threats, with Iran seemingly targeting candidates seen as more confrontational towards them.
Source: Ap News
