Navigating the Minefield of Election-Related Scams: A Call for Vigilance

As the countdown to Election Day in the United States ticks down to less than three weeks, a troubling trend has emerged: over half of Americans (56%) report being targeted by election-related scams. This alarming statistic, revealed in a recent survey by Norton, underscores the urgent need for public awareness and caution as voters prepare to cast their ballots.

The Rising Threat of Election Scams

Election scams are not just a nuisance; they pose significant risks to both financial security and the integrity of the electoral process. Leena Elias, Chief Product Officer at Gen, emphasizes the gravity of the situation: "From fake donations to disinformation intended to deceive, these scams can lead to serious financial and personal data losses or even increase divisiveness by spreading confusion and mistrust." As misinformation proliferates, it becomes increasingly vital for voters to arm themselves with knowledge and tools to protect their personal information and ensure their votes count.

Who’s Most at Risk?

The survey highlights a concerning trend: younger voters, particularly those under 35, are disproportionately targeted by these scams. A staggering two-thirds (66%) of individuals aged 25 to 34 reported encountering election-related scams. This vulnerability may stem from a false sense of security, as younger generations often believe they are less susceptible to online threats, leading them to engage in riskier online behaviors.

The Financial Impact of Scams

The financial ramifications of these scams are equally alarming. Nearly one in five (19%) individuals targeted by election scams fell victim, with a staggering 88% of those victims reporting financial losses. On average, victims reported losing over $7,200, a significant blow to personal finances that can have lasting effects.

Voter Concerns: Anxiety Over Scams

As Election Day approaches, anxiety among voters is palpable. The survey reveals that fake news and disinformation are the top concerns, with 43% of respondents identifying it as a primary fear. Other significant worries include fake polls and surveys (31%), voter registration scams (31%), fake endorsement scams (23%), impersonation scams and deepfakes (22%), donation scams (21%), and robocalls (21%).

Common Scams to Watch Out For

Several scams have emerged as particularly prevalent during this election cycle:

• Robocalls: Over one-third (37%) of participants reported being targeted by election-related robocalls, with older Americans (over 55) being disproportionately affected (45%).

• Fake News/Disinformation: One-fifth (20%) of respondents encountered misleading information, with younger voters (25 to 34) particularly at risk (28%).

• Political Donation Scams: With the average person receiving 11 fundraising messages a week, one in five (19%) expressed concern about the legitimacy of these requests. Nearly half (48%) of voters choose to delete such messages, while two-thirds ignore them altogether.

• Impersonation Scams/Deepfakes: About one in ten (10%) participants reported encountering impersonation scams and deepfakes, with younger voters (25 to 34) being notably more susceptible (20%).

• Fake Polls and Surveys: 17% of those surveyed were targeted by attempts to capture personal information through fake polls, with the highest instances among the 18 to 24 age group (25%).

Trust Issues: Polling Station Concerns

While 82% of respondents confirmed their intention to vote, 40% expressed concerns about the legitimacy of polling stations. Interestingly, older voters (55 and older) exhibited the most confidence, with 71% having no concerns compared to only 49% of those aged 25 to 34. This disparity highlights the impact of misinformation on public trust in the electoral process.

Your Guide to Staying Safe This Election Season

To safeguard against election-related scams, Norton offers several key recommendations:

1. Verify Sources: Always check the credibility of the information you receive. Rely on official election websites and trusted news sources for accurate updates.

2. Be Cautious When Donating: Research organizations before making donations. Legitimate entities will provide clear information on how funds are utilized.

3. Look for Red Flags: Be wary of unsolicited messages or phone calls requesting personal information or money. Trust your instincts; if something feels off, investigate further. Tools like Norton Genie can help identify potential scams quickly.

4. Report Suspicious Activity: If you encounter a potential scam, report it to the appropriate authorities.

5. Education is Key: Share this information with friends and family, especially younger voters who may be more susceptible to scams.

Conclusion: Stay Informed and Alert

As Election Day approaches, Norton urges voters to remain vigilant. Scams have the potential to mislead voters, skew public opinion, and compromise personal information. It is crucial for individuals to verify the credibility of political communications and report any suspicious activity.

For more information on how to protect yourself against election-related scams, visit Norton’s dedicated page.

Methodology

The study was conducted online within the United States by Dynata on behalf of Gen from September 13 to September 20, 2024, among 1,000 adults ages 18 and older. Data are weighted where necessary by age, gender, and region to ensure national representation.

In this critical time for democracy, staying informed and cautious is not just advisable; it is essential.