As the 2024 U.S. election cycle heats up, cybercriminals are ramping up efforts to exploit the political landscape. Small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) and managed service providers (MSPs) are particularly vulnerable during this period. From phishing campaigns to sophisticated nation-state attacks, the election introduces new risks that could severely impact businesses and the MSPs that support them.
Key Takeaways:
- Phishing attacks targeting SMBs during the election cycle are expected to surge, making MSPs essential for providing advanced email security and awareness training.
- Nation-state actors may use SMBs as entry points for more extensive cyber-attacks, especially those connected to election systems or critical infrastructure, putting increased pressure on MSPs to secure their clients.
- The election could bring about shifts in cybersecurity regulations and insurance requirements, which will have a lasting impact on both SMBs and MSPs, requiring proactive measures to stay compliant.
As we dive deeper into these emerging threats, let’s explore the real-world impact and the vital role MSPs will play in securing SMBs during this critical time.
1. The Surge in Politically-Themed Phishing Campaigns Targeting SMBs
Election seasons are prime for cybercriminal activity, and phishing campaigns remain one of the most common attack vectors. With email inboxes flooded by political ads, voting information, and donation requests, it’s easy for malicious actors to disguise phishing emails as legitimate election-related communication. SMBs, often with fewer cybersecurity resources, are prime targets for these attacks, which may lead to credential theft, ransomware infections, or data breaches.
Example: Phishing Emails Disguised as Voter Information
During the 2020 U.S. elections, phishing emails disguised as official voter registration updates surged. Many businesses received emails claiming to offer polling information or requesting donations for political causes. These emails contained malicious links designed to steal login credentials or deliver malware. The rise of generative AI has made crafting convincing phishing messages easier, allowing cybercriminals to scale their operations.
In a recent incident in 2024, reports indicate a notable increase in phishing attacks related to the election cycle, with many attackers leveraging topics like voter registration and political donations.
SMBs that lack strong defenses are especially vulnerable to these attacks.
For MSPs, the solution lies in proactive measures, including anti-phishing solutions, advanced email filtering, and security awareness training for their SMB clients.
2. Nation-State Attacks on SMBs Connected to Critical Infrastructure
Election interference has evolved from a national concern to one that directly impacts businesses—particularly those providing services to government agencies or critical infrastructure. Nation-state actors target SMBs as weak links in the supply chain, seeking access to larger systems through their less secure networks. This makes SMBs that work with election technology or government contracts especially vulnerable during the election cycle.
Example: SMBs as a Backdoor into Election Systems
During previous election cycles, hackers targeted software companies supplying election technology to various state governments. By compromising these smaller vendors, nation-state actors gained access to voter databases and sensitive election-related systems. This pattern is expected to continue in 2024, with reports of increasing activity on the darknet aimed at facilitating such attacks.
One of the most recent cases involves Iran, where hackers have reportedly targeted U.S. presidential campaigns, exploiting SMB vulnerabilities to gain access to sensitive data
For MSPs managing these clients, it’s crucial to employ a multi-layered defense strategy that includes endpoint protection, intrusion detection systems, and network segmentation. Regular security assessments and proactive monitoring are necessary to mitigate these risks.
3. New Regulations and Increased Demand for Cybersecurity Insurance
As election-related cyberattacks increase, SMBs—especially those in critical sectors—could face new compliance requirements. Additionally, with the rising risk of ransomware attacks and data breaches, more businesses are seeking cybersecurity insurance to protect against financial losses.
Example: The Shift Toward Cybersecurity Compliance
After the 2020 elections, several states began focusing more on cybersecurity regulations for companies working with critical infrastructure. These requirements included mandatory incident reporting and compliance with frameworks like NIST and the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC). Similarly, the 2024 election cycle is driving demand for cybersecurity insurance as businesses look to protect themselves from potential damages.
MSPs can assist SMBs by offering managed compliance services to help them stay up-to-date with evolving regulations. Additionally, bundling cybersecurity solutions with insurance products provides added value to SMB clients.
Disinformation Campaigns and Their Impact on SMBs
Disinformation campaigns, often designed to influence public opinion during elections, can also impact businesses, especially those with a strong online presence. Cybercriminals may spread false information about a company’s services or leadership, leading to reputational damage.
Example: Fake Reviews and Social Media Attacks
In the past, SMBs have been victims of disinformation campaigns that spread fake reviews or social media posts during election periods. For example, in one notable case, a small business was falsely accused of political affiliations, resulting in lost customers and a barrage of negative reviews.
These campaigns can have a devastating effect on businesses that rely on their local reputation.
MSPs can help mitigate these risks by monitoring their clients’ digital presence and using tools to detect and respond to disinformation. Setting up alerts for unusual online activity and implementing account takeover protections are key steps in safeguarding against these threats.
Supply Chain Attacks: A Growing Threat for SMBs During Elections
Election cycles also see a rise in supply chain attacks, where cybercriminals target smaller vendors to gain access to larger networks. SMBs that provide software, hardware, or services to election offices are particularly at risk of these attacks, which are often aimed at disrupting or influencing the election process.
Example: Targeting SMB Vendors in the Supply Chain
In the 2016 U.S. election, hackers targeted a small software company that provided voter registration services to several states. By breaching this vendor, the attackers gained access to sensitive voter data, disrupting registration systems. With the 2024 election approaching, similar attacks are expected, with hackers actively working on the darknet to coordinate such efforts.
For MSPs, securing their clients’ supply chains is a top priority. This includes strong vendor management practices, regular security assessments, and ensuring that all software and hardware are updated and patched. Establishing contingency plans can also help SMBs quickly recover from any potential supply chain disruptions.
Conclusion: Guardz’s Commitment to Securing SMBs and MSPs During Critical Times
As we move through the 2024 election season, the cybersecurity landscape for SMBs and MSPs will become more complex and challenging. From phishing attacks to nation-state threats and supply chain vulnerabilities, the risks are significant. However, MSPs play a crucial role in helping SMBs navigate this turbulent environment by providing comprehensive security solutions, compliance support, and proactive protection.
At Guardz, we are deeply committed to the MSP community, understanding the unique challenges they face—especially during election cycles. Our mission is to empower MSPs with the tools and knowledge they need to secure their clients effectively. With AI-powered security solutions, managed detection and response (MDR), and cybersecurity insurance offerings, Guardz ensures that MSPs can stay ahead of emerging threats and continue to provide top-tier security services to their SMB clients.
Let’s work together to ensure that, even during times of political uncertainty, your clients remain secure and confident in their digital environments.
References:
- Axios (2024). Iran Hackers Target U.S. Presidential Campaigns Axios Article on Iran Hackers.
- Infosecurity Magazine (2024). Darknet Activity Increases During Election Season Infosecurity Magazine on Darknet Activity.
- ReliaQuest (2024). Top Cyber Threats & Organizational Impacts During the US Election
ReliaQuest - Cybersecurity Intelligence (2024). US Election Cyber Intrusion: Nation-State Actors
Cyber Security Intelligence - Cyber Defense Magazine (2024). Cybersecurity Concerns for the 2024 US Election Cyber Defense Magazine
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Written by
Tal Eisner is the Vice President of Product Marketing at Guardz, bringing over two decades of experience in cybersecurity and fraud management. Prior to joining Guardz, Tal led marketing efforts at Check Point Research, the Intelligence & Research division of a leading cybersecurity company. With a strong background in security, Tal combines his technical expertise with a strategic focus on marketing, communications, and business development. His career reflects a deep commitment to advancing cybersecurity solutions while effectively communicating their value to diverse audiences.
