Iranian Hackers Target U.S. Election Infrastructure, Microsoft Warns

Overview

• The Iranian hacking group Cotton Sandstorm is linked to Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and is actively scouting U.S. election-related websites and media.
• Microsoft researchers suggest these activities indicate preparations for direct influence operations as Election Day approaches.
• In past operations, Cotton Sandstorm posed as the right-wing Proud Boys, sending threatening emails to voters and releasing misleading videos.
• The Office of the Director of National Intelligence highlights ongoing foreign efforts, particularly from Russia, Iran, and China, to undermine U.S. democratic processes.
• Iranian officials deny any intent to interfere with the U.S. election, dismissing the allegations as unfounded.