The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) issued a statement on Tuesday alerting the public to misinformation being spread using its name and insignia in relation to the 2024 presidential election. The FBI stated that two videos, falsely claiming to be released by the agency, were circulating online and spreading false information about voter fraud and election integrity.
These videos, which mimicked the style of official FBI communications, made baseless claims about voter fraud in prisons located in Pennsylvania, Georgia, and Arizona. The videos alleged that prison management had rigged inmate voting and colluded with a political party to manipulate election results. The FBI clarified that these videos were not authentic and their contents were entirely false.
In addition to these videos, other fabricated clips were also shared online, with one falsely claiming to be a report from CBS News. This particular video falsely stated that the FBI was advising people to “vote remotely” due to a potential terror attack. However, the FBI confirmed that no such warning had been issued by U.S. officials and CBS News had not produced any such report. The social media account that shared this video was suspended on Monday.
The FBI emphasized that these videos were not authentic and did not accurately represent the current threat level or safety of polling locations. The agency reiterated its commitment to election integrity and stated that it was collaborating with state and local law enforcement to address election threats and ensure the safety of communities as Americans exercised their right to vote.
Researchers tracking online Russian disinformation activities indicated that the videos were likely created by a Russian disinformation group known for mimicking news organizations and government entities. This group has a history of creating fake content and using QR codes to link to legitimate news outlets in order to make their posts appear more authentic. The group was also responsible for releasing two additional fabricated FBI videos in recent days.
The FBI warned that attempts to deceive the public with false information about FBI threat assessments and activities were aimed at undermining the democratic process and eroding trust in the electoral system. The agency urged the public to remain vigilant and cautious when consuming information online, especially during sensitive times such as elections.
The FBI’s statement on the misuse of its name and insignia comes at a critical time as millions of Americans head to the polls to participate in the 2024 presidential election. The agency’s swift response to the spread of misinformation underscores the importance of verifying sources and fact-checking information before sharing it online.
In conclusion, the FBI’s alert about the spread of misinformation using its name and insignia serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges posed by disinformation campaigns in the digital age. As technology continues to evolve, it is crucial for individuals to exercise caution and critical thinking when consuming information online, particularly during important events such as elections. The FBI’s efforts to combat misinformation and protect the integrity of the electoral process are essential in preserving the trust and confidence of the American public in the democratic system.
