The Federal Bureau of Investigation has become aware of two instances of fake videos falsely using their name and insignia to spread misinformation about the 2024 presidential election. These fabricated videos were among a series of misleading clips mimicking news organizations and officials that were circulated online, creating false alarms about security threats and election integrity as millions of Americans were casting their votes. Researchers believe that these videos were likely created by a Russian disinformation group that has a history of mimicking international news outlets and U.S. government entities. The FBI has clarified that these videos are not authentic and their contents are false.
In one of the fake videos, it was falsely claimed that the management of five prisons in Pennsylvania, Georgia, and Arizona had rigged inmate voting and colluded with a political party to commit voter fraud. Another fabricated video, designed to look like a news report from CBS News, falsely asserted that the FBI was advising people to “vote remotely” due to a potential terror attack. No such warning or report has been issued by U.S. officials or CBS News, and the social media account that posted the video was suspended. The FBI emphasized that these videos do not accurately represent the current threat posture or the safety of polling locations.
The Russian disinformation group responsible for these fake videos has also released additional fabricated FBI videos in recent days. This group has previously mimicked international news outlets and U.S. government entities in their efforts to spread false information. Many of their posts include QR codes that link to legitimate news outlets to give the appearance of authenticity. In the past, this group has made similar false claims about threats related to major events such as the Olympics. The FBI has reassured the public that election integrity is a top priority and that they are working closely with state and local law enforcement partners to respond to election threats and protect communities as Americans exercise their right to vote.
The FBI has warned that attempts to deceive the public with fake content about FBI threat assessments and activities aim to undermine the democratic process and erode trust in the electoral system. They stress the importance of identifying and countering misinformation to ensure that voters have accurate information and can make informed decisions. Misinformation, especially when attributed to official sources like the FBI, can have serious consequences for electoral processes and public trust. It is crucial for individuals to critically evaluate the information they encounter online and verify its authenticity before sharing it.
As misinformation continues to spread online, it is essential for individuals to be vigilant about false information and disinformation campaigns, particularly during critical events such as elections. By being aware of the tactics used by malicious actors to spread misinformation and taking steps to verify the accuracy of information before sharing it, individuals can help combat the spread of false narratives and protect the integrity of the electoral process. The FBI and other law enforcement agencies remain committed to addressing disinformation and ensuring that voters have access to accurate and reliable information to make informed choices.
