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Chinese hackers have reportedly targeted the cellphones of Donald Trump, JD Vance, and officials close to Kamala Harris.
What’s the deal: According to AP, Chinese hackers targeted cellphones linked to key US political figures, including Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump, his running mate JD Vance, and individuals connected to Vice President Kamala Harris’s campaign. While it is unclear if any sensitive data was accessed, US officials are investigating these breaches as part of a broader Chinese cyberespionage effort. AP sources, speaking on condition of anonymity, indicated that the campaign is likely part of a continuing Chinese initiative to infiltrate US telecommunications and gain access to critical data about high-profile political figures and policy stances significant to Beijing.

What the FBI is saying: In a brief statement, the FBI acknowledged awareness of the reports but declined to comment directly. The FBI added that they were investigating “unauthorized access to commercial telecommunications infrastructure by actors affiliated with the People’s Republic of China. Agencies across the US Government are collaborating to aggressively mitigate this threat and are coordinating with our industry partners to strengthen cyber defenses across the commercial communications sector.”
This development follows a report released earlier this week by Microsoft, which revealed that China, Russia, and Iran are ramping up efforts to influence the upcoming election. Here’s a closer look at Microsoft’s findings on each country.
Focusing on China: According to Microsoft, China’s influence operations ahead of the 2024 US elections are primarily focused on targeting down-ballot Republican candidates and members of Congress who advocate for anti-Chinese policies. This includes campaigns against Congressman Barry Moore, Michael McCaul, Senator Marsha Blackburn, and Senator Marco Rubio. Microsoft claims that Chinese bots have been amplifying antisemitic messages, spreading corruption allegations, and promoting opposition candidates to undermine these political figures.
Focusing on Russia: According to Microsoft, Russia’s influence efforts ahead of the 2024 election are focused on undermining the Harris-Walz campaign, particularly targeting Vice President Kamala Harris. Russian operatives are using AI-enhanced deepfake videos, including fabrications where Harris allegedly makes derogatory comments about former President Trump or engages in illegal activities. They are also spreading false information about Democratic vice-presidential nominee Tim Walz. Additionally, Russian actors have shifted their content distribution from Telegram to X to more effectively reach US audiences.
Focusing on Iran: According to Microsoft, Iran’s influence operations ahead of the 2024 US election remain active despite heightened tensions in the Middle East. Iranian actors have engaged in cyberattacks, including a hack-and-leak operation targeting the Trump campaign, where stolen materials were sent to individuals connected to President Biden’s campaign and US media outlets. Microsoft noted that Iran is continuing to exploit divisive social issues, such as anti-Israel sentiments, to shape American public opinion. One group, posing as ‘Bushnell’s Men,‘ has called for Americans to boycott the election due to the candidates’ support for Israel, while earlier campaigns incited protests on US college campuses. Additionally, Iran’s cyber group, Cotton Sandstorm, has been scouting election-related websites, indicating potential preparations for further influence operations as Election Day approaches.