FBI warns of election crimes and threats to workers ahead of 2026 midterms

The FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center published two public service announcements on November 15, 2026, warning about federal election crimes and threats targeting election workers ahead of the November 2026 midterm election. According to the advisories, the agency aims to educate citizens on how to avoid these crimes and encourage the reporting of suspected violations to protect the integrity of the democratic process.

These warnings cover a wide range of illegal activities, including voter suppression, ballot tampering, and the use of campaign funds for unauthorized personal purposes. The FBI also highlighted threats involving physical or financial harm to voters and the intentional dissemination of false information regarding the time, place, or manner of voting. The agency stated that such crimes undermine public confidence in the stability of the US electoral system.

Scope of Election Worker Protection

The FBI explicitly cautioned about threats directed at election workers, noting that such harassment jeopardizes both individual safety and the broader electoral process. According to the advisory, the definition of election workers is broad and includes elected officials, appointed officials, staff, volunteers, contractors, vendors, and liaisons. Specific examples provided by the agency include Secretaries of State, members of their staffs, employees of state or county boards of elections, and individuals volunteering at polling stations.

Threats against these individuals can be communicated through various channels, including telephone calls, emails, social media posts, and in-person statements. The FBI stated that it takes all threats of violence targeting election workers seriously, regardless of the method used to convey the harassment. The agency urged the public to report any awareness of threats made to election workers or polling locations to local field offices.

Voter Guidance and Reporting

For voters, the FBI emphasized the importance of seeking election information from trustworthy sources and verifying the intent behind the content. The agency advised using official websites, such as the U.S. Election Assistance Commission or USA.gov, to identify the correct date, time, and location of polling places. Regarding political donations, the FBI recommended researching individuals and entities by checking the registration status of political action committees on the Federal Election Commission website.

The agency warned citizens never to accept money or anything of value in exchange for voting for a specific candidate. If voters encounter suspicious posts spreading false or inconsistent information about voting, the FBI suggested using built-in platform tools offered by social media companies to report them. The advisories encourage the public to submit electronic tips or contact local FBI field offices with details such as names of involved individuals and screenshots of threatening or false information.

What should you do?

The FBI released these advisories to ensure citizens are informed about federal election crimes and the proper channels for reporting them. The agency provided specific guidance on verifying information and documenting potential violations.

What to do and how to stay safe: FBI

• Verify polling place dates, times, and locations using official government websites like USA.gov or the U.S. Election Assistance Commission.
• Report suspected election crimes, including threats or disinformation, to your local FBI field office or via the electronic tip system.
• Check the registration status of political committees on the Federal Election Commission website before making donations.
• Use social media platform tools to report posts that spread false or inconsistent information about voting procedures.

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Frequently asked questions

Who does the FBI consider an election worker?

The FBI defines election workers broadly to include elected and appointed officials, staff, volunteers, contractors, vendors, and liaisons involved in election administration.

How can I report threats to election workers?

You can report threats to your local FBI field office or submit an electronic tip, including details such as names, dates, locations, and screenshots of the threats.

What sources should I use for election information?

The FBI advises using official websites, such as the U.S. Election Assistance Commission or USA.gov, to verify accurate information about polling places and voting procedures.