As the 2024 US election approaches, mobile political spam has surged dramatically compared to the 2022 midterm elections. According to research by Proofpoint, spam targeting American voters has tripled, posing significant cybersecurity threats.

This increase in spam manifests through various tactics, including unsolicited text messages and inappropriate use of social media platforms. Cybercriminals exploit these channels to disseminate misinformation, phishing attempts, and fraudulent donation requests, causing concern among both voters and security experts.

One notable example is the spike in SMS phishing campaigns, commonly known as “smishing,” where recipients receive fraudulent texts appearing to be from political organizations. These messages often contain malicious links aimed at compromising personal information. Social media is also not exempt, with bad actors using it to spread false narratives rapidly.

Proofpoint’s findings emphasize the importance of vigilance and public awareness. Voters are encouraged to verify the authenticity of communications they receive about the elections. They should be cautious of unsolicited messages requesting personal information or donations and to report suspicious activities to relevant authorities.

The Federal Trade Commission and Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) have reiterated best practices for safeguarding against such threats. These include not clicking on links from unknown senders, double-checking sources before sharing news on social media, and using antivirus software to detect and block potential threats.

As digital engagement continues to play a crucial role in elections, the challenge of securing the digital landscape against malicious activities like political spam remains ever critical.