CISA and FBI Warn Election Officials of Phishing and Smishing Threats Ahead of 2026 Midterms
Summary
CISA and the FBI warn that cyber actors may target election officials, candidates, and political organizations with phishing and smishing to steal credentials or sensitive information, or install malware, ahead of the 2026 U.S. midterms.
Key points
- CISA and the FBI issued a public service announcement warning of cyber threats during the 2026 U.S. midterm elections.
- Phishing and smishing may be used to steal login credentials and sensitive information or install malware on targeted devices.
- Election officials, candidates, and political organizations may be targeted because of their access to voter registration data, government officials, and campaign information.
- The agencies say malicious messages may use convincing email, text, audio, or video and may prompt recipients to disclose information or interact with malicious links or attachments.
- CISA and the FBI urge recipients to review the PSA, follow recommended cybersecurity practices, and remain alert to suspicious emails and mobile messages.
Article Details
- Event Type
- Public Service Announcement warning of cyber threats targeting election and campaign officials during the 2026 U.S. midterm elections
- Impact
- Phishing and smishing may steal login credentials and other sensitive information or install malware on targeted devices. Election officials, candidates, and political organizations may be targeted because of access to voter registration data, government officials, and sensitive campaign information.