FBI warns about scams ahead of 2024 US election

Scam activity intensifies as the 2024 US election is getting closer

The forthcoming presidential election, scheduled for November 5, 2024,^[1] is one of the high-interest events in which voters will make one of the biggest choices between Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump. It has all the makings of a very competitive election, with the results from polls showing this race as highly contested between the candidates.

As enthusiasm and tensions rise, scammers are seizing the opportunity to exploit the situation for their gain.^[2] To combat this, the FBI has issued a formal warning, emphasizing the various scams that are surfacing as the election approaches. As stated on the official government website, the FBI said:^[3]

Scammers use the names, images, logos, and slogans of candidates to fraudulently solicit campaign contributions, sell merchandise (which is never sent to the purchaser), or steal victim personally identifiable information (PII) that can be used for other fraud.

Scammers use heightened political engagement to create schemes that appear legitimate but are intended to deceive the public. These scams take many forms, from fake donation appeals to fraudulent merchandise sales. The FBI’s alert aims to educate the public on recognizing and avoiding these traps.

From fraudulent Political Action Committees to merchandise scams: crooks are willing to take any action to succeed

The FBI has identified several common scams circulating during the election period. One of the most alarming is the campaign investment pool scheme, where scammers promise financial returns on donations to a candidate’s campaign. Victims are led to believe their contributions will be refunded or increased after the candidate wins, which is entirely false.

Another prevalent scheme involves fraudulent PACs (Political Action Committees). These operations present themselves as legitimate campaign groups seeking donations but pocket the money instead.

Merchandise scams are another popular method. Fraudsters create websites selling campaign-branded items, enticing voters eager to show their support. However, these sites are designed solely to take payments without ever delivering the products.

Equally misleading is the scam voter registration tactic that sends fake messages about the need for one to re-register to vote, taking them to sham websites where personal information is taken for identity theft.

These scams have been quite convincing, mainly because they use real campaign images, names, and branding. The FBI warning has kept people informed about the need for vigilance regarding any unsolicited communication about the election.

Safety measures to avoid being taken advantage of

The FBI wants voters to be cautious of any unsolicited calls, texts, and emails requesting donations or personal information. A red flag to watch out for in unsolicited messages: those that create a need for urgency. Among steps recommended is verifying a PAC's authenticity through the FEC website, because the scammers sometimes use a name that sounds real.

To avoid merchandise scams, voters should only purchase items from verified sources and check reviews on trusted platforms. Additionally, if contacted about voter registration, individuals should access their state’s official election website directly to confirm any required action. The FBI emphasizes that campaign contributions are never investments and any claim promising financial returns is false.

The public is encouraged to report suspicious activity promptly to the FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3). This reporting can help authorities respond effectively and prevent further victimization. As scams are expected to increase as the election nears, staying informed and cautious is crucial to protecting oneself and supporting the integrity of the democratic process.