Iranian Hackers Target U.S. Elections Amidst Tensions

An Iranian hacking group, linked to Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, is reportedly investigating U.S. election-related websites as Election Day approaches. Microsoft highlights the group's previous interference in 2020 and ongoing influence operations. Both U.S. and Iranian officials express concern over potential election disruptions.

As the November 5 presidential election approaches, a hacking group linked to Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps is reportedly targeting U.S. election-related websites. Dubbed Cotton Sandstorm by Microsoft, this group is suspected of planning "direct influence operations," according to a recent Microsoft blog post.

The group previously engaged in cyber activities to disrupt U.S. elections, mimicking the Proud Boys in 2020 to seed confusion. Current reconnaissance efforts include probing battleground state websites and assessing vulnerabilities in a U.S. news outlet.

While Iranian officials deny interference intentions, the U.S. continues to safeguard its election infrastructure against foreign influence. Microsoft and government agencies emphasize past patterns of election-related efforts by this group.

(With inputs from agencies.)