In a recent statement, Jen Easterly, director of the U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), has assured that America's election systems are highly secure against foreign interference. This declaration comes as the United States prepares for its 60th quadrennial presidential election, scheduled for November 5, 2024.
Easterly emphasized that the nation's voting infrastructure is more secure than ever before, stating that malicious actors would be unable to significantly impact the election outcome. This assertion is backed by the continuous efforts of CISA, established in 2018 as a component of the Department of Homeland Security, to strengthen election cybersecurity.
Despite the robust security measures, federal agencies have warned of increasing attempts by foreign adversaries, particularly Russia and Iran, to influence American voters. These efforts, according to Easterly, are primarily aimed at sowing discord and undermining faith in the electoral process.
Recent actions by U.S. authorities highlight the ongoing battle against foreign interference:
- In September 2024, the Biden administration seized over two dozen Kremlin-run fake websites and charged two Russian state media employees in a scheme to covertly fund right-wing influencers.
- Three Iranian operatives were charged with hacking former President Trump's campaign as part of a broader effort to undermine confidence in the U.S. electoral system.
These incidents are reminiscent of past interference attempts, with Russia and Iran having sought to influence U.S. elections through online disinformation and hacking since at least 2012 and 2016, respectively.
Easterly also noted China's interest in influencing the 2024 election, reflecting a trend observed since at least 2018. However, she emphasized that no specific cyber activity targeting actual election infrastructure or processes has been detected.
The prevalence of election misinformation remains a significant concern. To combat this, various initiatives have been implemented:
- Secretaries of state and larger local election offices have established specific efforts to counter misinformation.
- The Global Engagement Center works to counter foreign propaganda and disinformation campaigns.
- Social media platforms have implemented policies to combat election misinformation.
Easterly clarified that while CISA works with election officials to promote accurate information, the agency does not monitor or moderate social media content. She encouraged voters to seek information from trusted sources, particularly state and local election officials.
"There will be a lot of information out there in the coming months. It will be up to every voter to be able to understand the signal from the noise. That trusted signal is coming from your state and local election officials."
To enhance public understanding and trust in the electoral process, Easterly urged citizens to engage with their local election offices and consider volunteering as poll workers. This aligns with the broader efforts of organizations like the U.S. Election Assistance Commission, which provides resources for election officials and promotes best practices in election administration.
As the 2024 presidential race approaches, the focus remains on maintaining the integrity of the electoral process while combating foreign influence attempts. With the combined efforts of federal agencies, state and local officials, and an informed citizenry, the goal is to ensure a secure and transparent election that reflects the will of the American people.