Microsoft warns Iranian hackers ramping up attacks on US websites in lead-up to election day

An Iranian hacking group is currently targeting US election websites and media outlets as Election Day approaches, according to a blog post from Microsoft on Wednesday (Oct23). The research shows that this may be part of a plan for "preparations for more direct influence operations."

While the research of election-related websites occurred back in April, Microsoft analysts have only recently uncovered the activity. Additionally, the hackers reportedly conducted surveillance on major US media outlets in May, as per the tech giant.

Microsoft researchers noted, "Cotton Sandstorm will increase its activity as the election nears given the group's operational tempo and history of election interference." This is concerning given the group's previous attempts to meddle in elections.

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A representative for Iran’s mission to the United Nations dismissed the accusations, saying, "Such allegations are fundamentally unfounded and wholly inadmissible." They added, "Iran neither has any motive nor intent to interfere in the US election."

This incident is the latest indication of attempts by hacking groups from Iran, Russia, and China to either sway or monitor the US election as the presidential campaign reaches its final stages.

Back in 2020, Cotton Sandstorm carried out another cyber operation just before the presidential election. Posing as members of the far-right group "Proud Boys," the hackers sent numerous emails to Florida voters, warning them to "vote for Trump or else!"

The group also posted a video on social media, allegedly from hacktivists, showing an election system being probed. Although the operation did not directly affect voting systems, the primary aim was to create confusion, panic, and doubt, according to senior US officials at the time.

After the 2020 election, Cotton Sandstorm launched a separate operation that encouraged violence against US election officials who rejected allegations of widespread voter fraud, Microsoft said.

(With inputs from agencies)