Lobby for safety during this year’s election

The business of scamming has become exceedingly sophisticated over the past year, and the upcoming election can make voters prime targets. Being aware and diligent can prevent you from falling victim to scammers during this vulnerable time.

What is a voter registration scam?

The biggest problem with upcoming election scams involves links to fake voter registration forms which scammers can send via phone, email or text. Fraudsters will ask to register you for the next election by sending an app or link, but it's all a scam. Those links may be phishing scams to collect personal data like passwords or Social Security numbers, or to just gain access to your device.

Solution: You cannot register to vote in any state by phone, email or text. Voter registration must be done online, by mail or in-person at a local election office. But be cautious when registering online to not use unsolicited links.

How does AI (Artificial Intelligence) play a role in election scams?

Voters should be on high alert during the election months for AI-generated phone calls, robocalls or social media posts. Unlike video which can sometimes reveal fake behavior, it's harder to spot red flags with a robocall, making it easy to spread misinformation or directing voters to a fraudulent donation site.

Solution: Never take the information from a robocall for granted. Hang up and verify their facts with a trusted source. Never trust a robocall that asks for a donation and be skeptical of someone claiming to be a politician or celebrity.

With polling and petitioning so prevalent during an election, how can I be sure it's real?

It's common during an election to receive a phone call, text, email or visit from someone asking you to answer some questions. Often, they'll feature a well-known politician on the form that typically asks for personal information like birthdate or email address. Some scammers can offer a prize for participation and then ask for your credit card to cover taxes and shipping.

Solution: Never provide your name, address, email address, Social Security number or driver's license number to a pollster. Never click on survey links from unsolicited sources and don't participate in prizes.

Should I donate to my favorite candidate?

Be extremely careful when donating during an election. Scammers are adept at imitating candidates to ask for a donation or to trick you into clicking on a fraudulent link.

Solution: Only donate to candidates through their certified site. Don't trust calls or emails from anyone, even someone you recognize, because their account could be hacked. Be aware that criminals could record your voice after only a few seconds to use AI to impersonate you with your bank or credit card company.

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