FBI Warns Scammers Could Exploit 2026 Midterm Elections for Fraud

The Federal Bureau of Investigation warns that criminals could exploit the 2026 U.S. midterm elections to conduct financial fraud schemes. This alert updates a previous October 2024 advisory regarding the general election, noting that scammers have previously targeted state and local elections across the country. The agency advises the public to remain vigilant against these potential threats.

According to the FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center, fraudsters use the names, images, logos, and slogans of candidates to fraudulently solicit campaign contributions. They also sell merchandise that is never delivered and steal personally identifiable information for identity theft. The bureau states that these schemes are designed to cause financial loss and expose victims to further fraud.

Tactics and AI Impersonation

Scammers exploit artificial intelligence tools to generate highly realistic voices, images, and written messages. These AI-generated materials impersonate candidates, campaigns, government entities, and trusted contacts, making the schemes harder to detect. The FBI notes that this realism increases the likelihood of financial loss or exposure of PII.

One specific scheme involves promising victims a guaranteed return on campaign contribution dollars. Fraudsters claim to invest in a candidate campaign pool that pays out after the candidate wins. Victims are encouraged to recruit others to invest in this pool to increase their share of the supposed payout, a tactic that spreads the fraud further.

Targeted Fraud Schemes

Criminals also operate fake Political Action Committees, known as ScamPACs, to dupe victims into donating to illegitimate entities. Scammers have no affiliation with real PACs or candidate committees and keep the funds. While some scam PACs may appear registered, the FBI warns that those reporting high expenses for fundraising or administrative costs may be fraudulent operations.

Another common tactic is the non-shipment scam, where fraudsters claim to sell political merchandise but do not ship the items. Additionally, victims may receive texts or emails stating they are not registered to vote. These messages contain links to fraudulent state voter registration pages designed to steal PII for identity theft and further targeting.

What should you do?

The FBI advises caution with unsolicited calls, texts, emails, or surveys. Individuals should not provide PII to unknown persons or click on unknown links. Campaign donations are not investments and will not increase in value or be returned. Before donating, verify and review PAC, party, or candidate committee registration and financial filings on the Federal Election Commission website.

Confirm that unsolicited contact information is associated with the organization it claims to represent. Research companies before making purchases by checking reviews and complaints on BBB.org. Check your voter registration status at www.vote.gov to ensure accuracy and avoid falling for fraudulent registration requests.

What to do and how to stay safe: FBI

• Verify the legitimacy of any political committee or PAC by checking their registration and financial filings on the official Federal Election Commission website before sending money.
• Check your voter registration status directly through the official government portal at www.vote.gov rather than clicking links in unsolicited emails or text messages.
• Treat unsolicited communications requesting personal information or money with extreme skepticism, especially if they use AI-generated media or promise financial returns on political donations.
• Research any company selling political merchandise by looking for independent reviews and complaints on consumer protection sites like BBB.org before completing a purchase.

Step-by-step guide: Social Engineering Warning Signs and How to Respond

General security guidance from the Threat Times newsroom. It is not confirmed advice from the organisations named in this story.

Frequently asked questions

How are scammers using AI in election fraud?

Scammers exploit AI tools to generate realistic voices, images, and messages that impersonate candidates, campaigns, and government entities to trick victims.

What is a ScamPAC?

A ScamPAC is a fraudulent Political Action Committee that collects donations from victims who believe they are supporting a legitimate PAC or candidate, but the funds are kept by the scammers.

How can I report an election-related scam?

You can report election-related scams to your local FBI field office or to the Internet Crime Complaint Center at www.ic3.gov, providing details about the contact and transaction.