Iran launches covert news sites and AI-generated disinformation targeting 2024 U.S. election

Iranian state-sponsored network Storm-2035 operates four websites masquerading as legitimate news outlets to engage U.S. voter groups with polarizing messaging on presidential candidates, LGBTQ rights, and the Israel-Hamas conflict. The broader campaign includes over a dozen covert news sites targeting multiple languages. Iranian hackers use AI-generated video forgeries to create fake scandals claiming the CIA directed Ukrainian operations. The cyber-enabled influence operation builds on tactics used in 2020, when Iran impersonated American extremists to sow discord and incite violence against government officials. Microsoft Threat Analysis Center identifies the activity as part of Iran's persistent election interference efforts.