Microsoft issues fresh ‘Russia, Iran and China warning’ ahead of US elections

Microsoft has issued a fresh warning saying that Russia, Iran and China have continued targeting the US elections with hacking and AI tactics. The warning, which comes two weeks ahead of Election Day 2024 (on November 5), says that the cybercriminals are attacking both Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump’s campaigns.

According to a report by Microsoft Threat Analysis Center (MTAC), while Russian actors are using AI in their content, Iran is using hacking techniques and China is focussing on several down-ballot candidates.

“Russian actors continue to integrate generative AI into their content, Iranian groups ramp up their preparations to enable cyber-influence operations, while Chinese actors shift focus to several down-ballot candidates and members of Congress. Russian actors have notably attempted to target the Harris-Walz campaign by attacking the candidates’ characters,” the report said.

Russia focused on the Harris-Walz campaign

As per the Microsoft report, Russian operatives are undermining the Harris-Walz campaign by creating AI-enhanced deepfake videos about Vice President Harris. For example, an AI video showed Harris depicted as allegedly making derogatory comments about former President Donald Trump.

The report, however, says that most of these videos received minimal engagement even as some actors shifted their content publishing strategy from Telegram to X to reach US audiences.

Iran’s cyber-influence operations not slowing down

Meanwhile, Iran is using a campaign disguised as “Bushnell’s Men,” calling on Americans to boycott the elections due to the candidates’ support for Israel, Microsoft report says.

“Additionally, the Iranian cyber group Microsoft tracks as Cotton Sandstorm has been actively scouting election-related websites and media outlets, suggesting preparations for more direct influence operations as Election Day nears,” it added.

China targets down-ballot candidates and Congress

Chinese influence operations have focused on down-ballot Republican candidates and members of Congress that advocate for anti-Chinese policies. These threat actors have disseminated antisemitic messages, amplified accusations of corruption and promoted opposition candidates.