cnn.com
Russian Bomb Threats Target US Election
Federal investigators are tracking Russian email addresses used in a series of non-credible bomb threats sent to polling places in key states during the 2024 election.
English
United States
Us PoliticsRussiaElectionSecurityDisinformationThreats
FbiUs Cybersecurity And Infrastructure Security Agency (Cisa)Atlantic Council’s Digital Forensic Research LabGraphikaSentinelone
Jen EasterlyEmerson BrookingJack StubbsPat Eliasen
- What is the broader context of this investigation?
- The investigation into the bomb threats is part of a larger effort by US intelligence and law enforcement agencies to combat foreign influence online. This includes tracking videos and social media posts, and debunking fake content spread by Russian operatives and other foreign actors.
- What impact did the bomb threats have on Election Day?
- The bomb threats, sent from Russian email addresses, caused temporary evacuations at some polling places and increased tension during voting. While the origin of the threats is still being investigated, the use of Russian domains adds to concerns about foreign interference.
- How did the spread of disinformation impact the 2024 election?
- This election saw an unprecedented amount of disinformation spread online, with both right- and left-wing partisans quickly amplifying the content. This made it easier for foreign adversaries to sow discord and undermine confidence in the democratic process.
- What was the main focus of the investigation by federal investigators?
- Federal investigators are tracing Russian internet domains used to send non-credible bomb threats to polling places in swing states on Election Day. This highlights the ongoing challenge of combating disinformation and online threats aimed at disrupting the election process.
- What evidence connects the Election Day bomb threats to previous incidents?
- One of the email addresses used in the Election Day bomb threats appears to be linked to a series of bomb threats targeting LGBTQ+ events earlier in the year. This suggests a broader, ongoing campaign of hoax bomb threats.