Police to tech companies: Prepare for bot attacks and fake news during elections

Against the backdrop of growing concerns ahead of the Knesset elections regarding the use of bots, fake accounts, and the spread of fake news, the Israel Police is warning tech companies that they must prepare to prevent the abuse of automation systems during the national election period.

This was the core message of a letter recently sent by the head of the Investigations and Intelligence Division of the Israel Police, Nitzav Boaz Balet, to tech companies. He stated that the division, which oversees the Cyber Division, intends to increase supervision and enforcement ahead of and during the election period to ensure the prevention and detection of offenses regarding the integrity of the elections and the proper conduct of the democratic process.

Balet noted that this outreach is not due to any specific suspicion, but is intended to raise awareness, open a channel of cooperation with the police, and reduce risks in advance. He stated that "the Israel Police views tech companies as central partners in protecting the digital space and public trust," and encourages responsible conduct during the election period.

In his letter, Balet highlighted "suspicious signs" that platforms should monitor, providing recommendations to avoid facilitating criminal activity. These signs were divided into four groups:

1. Engagement patterns characterized by the coordinated operation of a large number of accounts or phone numbers that appear to be genuine but are automated.

2. The use of fake identities or details that do not match the service requester, aimed at concealing the financier or beneficiary of the activity.

3. Requests for the use of personal databases of unclear origin, as well as impersonation of candidates, public authorities, or media outlets.

4. Attempts to bypass verification mechanisms or security measures, as well as sharp, unexplained changes in activity volume or the nature of the content being disseminated.

Balet reminded companies that assisting in identity concealment or failing to investigate real suspicions could lead to legal liability. In cases of suspected damage to the integrity of the elections, companies are urged to contact the police.

One of the primary concerns ahead of the election is the use of bot networks combined with AI. With warnings from the Shin Bet and other sources regarding foreign interference, such as from Iran, the police and security services are preparing to monitor hostile entities attempting to influence the Knesset elections. In July, Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar warned a Knesset subcommittee about foreign attempts to influence the elections primarily through cyberattacks and bot operations on social media.