FBI Tips: Election Integrity

July 31, 2024

FBI Tips: Election Integrity – As the election swiftly approaches, the FBI is intensifying its efforts to safeguard the voting process with tips and resources on voter scams and election crimes. Therefore, citizens are strongly encouraged to educate themselves on the issues and impacts this election poses. Additionally, with the rising threats of cyberattacks, misinformation, and other potential dangers, it becomes increasingly crucial for everyone to stay vigilant and well-informed. Consequently, this election season, we urge all citizens to become aware of the critical issues at hand and know exactly what to do about them.

By fully understanding these threats and taking prompt action when necessary, we can collectively play a crucial role in ensuring a fair and secure election. Moreover, these proactive measures are essential for preserving the very foundation of our democracy. Indeed, your awareness and involvement are key to maintaining the integrity of our electoral system. Let’s work together to protect it and ensure that every vote counts.

Citizen Awareness: A Critical Need

The FBI has identified several early indicators of increased risks during elections. For instance, cyberattacks targeting election infrastructure, the spread of misinformation and disinformation campaigns, and heightened threats or intimidation directed at election officials and infrastructure are key concerns. Additionally, phishing scams aimed at stealing personal information, reports of voter intimidation, and unusual social media activity designed to sway public opinion are critical signs. Furthermore, suspicious funding sources or foreign influence efforts, coupled with increased mobilization by extremist groups around election events, can signal potential interference or violence. Therefore, these indicators underscore the importance of citizens staying informed and vigilant. Consequently, reporting any suspicious activities to authorities and helping to protect the integrity of the election process is crucial.

To that end, citizen awareness and action are paramount. By educating yourself about these issues and taking appropriate steps, you actively contribute to a fair and secure election. Moreover, your involvement is essential in countering false information and ensuring that every vote is counted accurately. Thus, let’s all commit to staying informed, vigilant, and proactive this election season. Together, we can uphold the integrity of our democracy and ensure that our voices are heard.

The FBI’s Initiative: Educating and Equipping the Public

To effectively address these concerns, the FBI has proactively launched an initiative aimed at educating the public. Moreover, this initiative provides essential knowledge and tools, thereby enabling citizens to identify and report suspicious activities. By taking advantage of these resources, you can more easily recognize signs of election fraud and clearly understand the necessary steps to take if you encounter them. Furthermore, staying informed through this initiative helps ensure that you are well-prepared to protect the integrity of the election process.

How to Identify and Report Concerns

Identify Suspicious Activities:

First and foremost, be aware of signs of cyber threats, such as unusual website behavior or misleading information about voting. Furthermore, watch for attempts to intimidate voters or spread false news.

Report and Validate Concerns:

If you suspect election fraud, report it immediately. You can contact local election authorities, the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3), or the Election Threats Task Force. Moreover, always verify information from reliable sources before sharing it, as this helps prevent the spread of misinformation.

Why Citizen Awareness Is Essential

Your awareness and action are vital to maintaining a secure election process. By staying informed and prepared, you not only protect your vote but also contribute to the integrity of the entire electoral system. Consequently, this guide offers critical tips and guidelines to help you navigate election security challenges, ensuring that every vote counts and our democracy remains strong.

FBI Tips: Election Integrity - A threat to an election work or volunteer is a threat to democracy

FBI Tips US Citizens to watch for, and what actions to take

Exploit	Explanation	Action
Cyberattacks on Election Infrastructure	Cybercriminals target election systems to steal information or disrupt services.	Report issues to your local election office and the FBI’s IC3. Do not share personal information if a website seems compromised.
Misinformation Campaigns	Spreading false information about voting dates, locations, or eligibility requirements.	Verify information from official sources. Report suspicious posts to the platform and the FBI, CISA Election Security. Share correct information to combat misinformation.
Voter Intimidation	Efforts to intimidate, threaten, or coerce voters at polling places or through other means.	Contact local law enforcement or call 911 if threatened. Report to local election office and the FBI’s Election Threats Task Force. Avoid confrontation and focus on voting safely. Alternatively contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324).
Phishing Scams	Scammers use phishing emails/messages to steal personal information or distribute malicious links.	Avoid clicking on suspicious links or sharing personal information. Always verify the sender’s identity through official channels. Report any suspected voter suppression, especially from private messages like texts, to your local FBI field office or at local FBI field office or at tips.fbi.gov.
Fake News and Rumors	Deliberate spread of false news stories or rumors to influence public opinion or cause confusion.	Cross-check information with reliable sources. Avoid sharing unverified information. Report fake news to social media platforms and, if necessary, to the FBI.
General Actions	Document the incident, report it to authorities, and stay safe.	Document incidents and report to local election office, FBI’s IC3. contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324). In emergencies, call 911.

How Citizens Can Volunteer to Preserve Election Integrity

As citizens, we have the power and responsibility to actively safeguard our democratic processes. Therefore, with election integrity at the forefront, there are numerous ways to contribute. Let’s explore some key roles and how you can get involved.

Become a Poll Worker

As a poll worker, you will help manage polling places on Election Day. You will ensure everything runs smoothly and assist voters in casting their ballots. To participate, simply contact your local election office or visit your state’s Secretary of State website. Additionally, many states offer online sign-up options, making it easy to get started.

Serve as a Poll Watcher

Poll watchers observe the voting process to ensure fairness and report any irregularities they witness during the election. To get involved, reach out to local political parties, candidates, or organizations like the League of Women Voters. They provide training and assign you to specific polling locations.

Participate in Voter Registration Drives

Volunteers help register new voters and educate them on their voting rights, which is crucial for increasing voter turnout and awareness. To participate, join organizations like Rock the Vote or Vote.org. They often organize registration events and need volunteers for various tasks.

Engage in Voter Education and Outreach

By informing the public about the voting process, key deadlines, and combating misinformation, you help ensure that voters are well-informed and confident in exercising their rights. You can partner with community centers, libraries, or civic organizations, which often host workshops and distribute educational materials.

Assist in Election Observation and Audits

Election observers and auditors monitor election processes and post-election audits to ensure transparency and accuracy in election results. Volunteer with organizations like Election Protection or the Carter Center. They provide training and assign volunteers to observation teams.

Report Misinformation and Election Issues

Monitor social media and other platforms for misinformation. Reporting false information helps maintain a truthful public discourse. Join initiatives like First Draft News or volunteer with fact-checking organizations, which often need help tracking and debunking false information.

Support Legal and Advocacy Efforts

Assist legal teams or advocacy groups in upholding fair voting laws and practices, which may involve legal research, community outreach, or administrative support. Consider volunteering with organizations like the ACLU or Fair Fight Action, which often seek volunteers for various tasks.

Join Civic Engagement Groups

Civic engagement groups promote active participation in democratic processes. Volunteers participate in community discussions, forums, and efforts to encourage voting. Look for local chapters of national organizations or community-based groups focused on civic engagement.

Volunteer for Non-Profit Organizations

Non-profits focused on election integrity and voting rights often need volunteers. Roles may include public outreach, administrative tasks, and advocacy efforts. Research organizations like Common Cause, the Brennan Center for Justice, or the Center for Election Innovation & Research. They frequently have volunteer opportunities available.

Be a Community Leader

As a community leader, you can initiate local efforts to ensure everyone can vote and that their votes are counted. This role involves organizing events, advocating for voter rights, and engaging with local government. Start by collaborating with other community leaders and participating in local government meetings. You can also launch initiatives to address specific voting issues in your area.

Election Workers and Volunteers Training

Thank you for volunteering in the US Election Process. As the election season quickly approaches, it becomes increasingly crucial to ensure that every vote is cast and counted accurately. Thus, your role as an election worker or volunteer is key to maintaining the integrity and smooth flow of our democratic processes. To assist you, we have developed a comprehensive training program that will provide you with the knowledge and skills needed to fulfill your duties.

Furthermore, by preparing for various scenarios and challenges, you will be ready to support voters and uphold the transparency of the election. Indeed, your commitment and preparedness are essential in protecting the core of our democracy.

Citizen Awareness: A Critical Need