Foreign actors are ramping up sophisticated disinformation campaigns ahead of the 2024 U.S. presidential election, according to intelligence officials. The campaigns, led by Russia, Iran and China, seek to erode trust in American democracy through targeted influence across multiple platforms.
In 2016, Russian efforts to interfere in the U.S. election were often clumsy. Officials said they relied on divisive content that was easy to spot.
On Tuesday, Oct. 29, foreign influence campaigns are more advanced, with Russia reportedly supporting Donald Trump, Iran favoring Kamala Harris and China concentrating on state-level interference.
Michael Casey, director of the National Counterintelligence and Security Center, confirms ongoing interference attempts. He said foreign influence now stretches beyond social media to chat groups, messaging apps and niche forums.
Using platforms like Telegram, Gab and networks run by American expatriates, these efforts are diversifying. Expats like former Florida police officer John Mark Dougan allegedly helped spread fabricated news and deepfakes.
Iran has also set up websites like Not Our War and Afro Majority to target veterans, Black Americans and conservative voters in specific states. China continues more subtle tactics to undermine the U.S. on a local level.
Security officials urge Americans to be vigilant as the election approaches. They suggest verifying content sources and avoid sharing inflammatory information without scrutiny.
