FBI and CISA warn of cyber threats targeting election officials

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency issued a joint public service announcement on October 16 warning of cyber threats aimed at election officials and campaign personnel ahead of the 2026 United States midterms. NTD News and CISA Alerts both report that federal authorities are urging staff and political organizations to remain vigilant against suspicious electronic communications. [1][2]

Hackers are using phishing emails, smishing text messages, and fabricated recordings to target individuals holding sensitive information, according to NTD News and CISA Alerts. These deceptive messages are designed to harvest login credentials, steal confidential material, and install malicious software on compromised devices. [1][2]

NTD News reports that targets hold high-value information that makes them attractive to criminals. This data includes voter registration records, private campaign details, and direct connections to government officials. [1]

Cyberwarfare includes the use of digital attacks against a state to carry out espionage, sabotage, propaganda, and manipulation. Federal agencies recommend that election officials, campaign workers, and the public adhere to recommended cybersecurity practices to protect systems from intrusion. [1][2][4]