Recent research by Microsoft has revealed that Iranian operatives are intensifying their attempts to influence and monitor the upcoming US presidential election. These efforts include the creation of fake news outlets targeting both liberal and conservative voters, as well as hacking attempts on an unnamed presidential campaign.
One of the fake news sites allegedly created by Iranian operatives used derogatory language to describe former President Donald Trump. Another site, posing as a conservative news source in Savannah, Georgia, focused on LGBTQ issues and gender reassignment.
While these sites have not gained significant traction on social media yet, Microsoft warns that the situation could change as the election approaches.
The report also highlights the growing trend of foreign actors, including those from Russia and China, attempting to sow discord and influence US elections. Russian operatives have been spreading fake scandals, while Chinese personas have been amplifying outrage around specific events.
US officials have been alerted to the ongoing threats posed by foreign intelligence services, with Russia being identified as the predominant threat. The Office of the Director of National Intelligence has warned of potential covert social media campaigns aimed at undermining support for certain candidates or causes.
In a recent development, US authorities obtained intelligence on a plot by Iran to assassinate former President Trump. This led to increased security measures being implemented by the Secret Service. The Justice Department has also announced charges against a Pakistani man with alleged ties to the Iranian government for his involvement in the alleged assassination plot.
Iran has denied these allegations, but tensions remain high following previous confrontations between Iran and the US, including the killing of Iranian General Qasem Soleimani by the Trump administration.
