Urgent Measures for Securing the 2024 Election
The 2024 presidential election is fast approaching, and the U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) has launched a critical initiative to safeguard election security. As cyber threats from foreign governments, ransomware gangs, and misinformation campaigns intensify, CISA’s new program is a timely and necessary intervention.
Strengthening State and Local Election Security
The program, introduced at meetings of the National Association of State Election Directors and the National Association of Secretaries of State, aims to shore up election security at state and local levels. This effort comes in the wake of alarming incidents such as AI-generated robocalls in New Hampshire and a cyberattack on Fulton County, Georgia’s local government, which have underscored the vulnerabilities in our election infrastructure.
CISA’s initiative includes the deployment of 10 seasoned election security advisers across the country. These experts will conduct cyber and physical security reviews for election offices that request assistance.
Building on a Foundation of Security
CISA’s efforts are not isolated. At the RSA Conference 2024, CISA Executive Director Brandon Wales highlighted the ongoing collaboration with international partners to bolster election security globally. The #Protect2024 campaign and recent guidelines on countering foreign malign influence operations are part of a comprehensive strategy to fortify election systems against sophisticated threats.
The Urgency of the Mission
The urgency of this mission cannot be overstated. As state election officials continue to face harassment and threats, the support provided by CISA is invaluable. The resilience of our democratic processes depends on this robust network of support.
In this high-stakes election year, the cybersecurity community must remain vigilant and proactive. The integrity of the 2024 elections hinges on our collective ability to defend against and mitigate these persistent threats. The stakes have never been higher, and the time to act is now.
