Submit tips on ballot tampering, intimidation and false info to FBI for 2026 midterms

The FBI is asking the public to report any threats against election workers or violations of federal election laws ahead of the November 2026 midterm election. This advisory aims to protect the integrity of the voting process and ensure that all eligible citizens can exercise their right to vote without fear or obstruction.

In plain English

Election crimes undermine public confidence in democracy by interfering with how votes are cast, counted, or administered. These violations range from suppressing voter participation through intimidation to tampering with physical ballots. The agency emphasizes that threats directed at anyone involved in running an election are taken seriously, regardless of the method used to convey them.

The background

According to the FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center, election workers include a wide range of individuals. This definition covers elected and appointed officials, staff members, contractors, vendors, and volunteers. Specific examples provided include secretaries of state, employees of state or county boards of elections, and individuals volunteering at polling stations. Threats against these groups can come via phone, email, social media, or in-person statements.

What changes now

The agency has highlighted eight broad categories of federal election crimes for voters to recognize. These include civil rights violations like voter suppression, providing false registration information, and tampering with ballot markings. Other offenses involve threatening voters with harm, lying about election logistics to prevent voting, and accepting prohibited foreign contributions. Misusing campaign funds for personal gain is also listed as a violation.

Key terms explained

Election integrity relies on accurate information and safe administration. Teams usually verify polling details through official government channels rather than social media. Check whether sources are trustworthy before sharing election content. Report suspicious posts using built-in platform tools. Verify the registration status of political committees before donating. Never exchange value for votes. These steps help maintain a fair process and protect workers from harassment or intimidation attempts.

What to do and how to stay safe: FBI

• Verify voting dates, times, and locations using official sites like USA.gov or the U.S. Election Assistance Commission.
• Report threats against election workers or polling locations to your local FBI field office or via the electronic tip system.
• Use social media platform tools to report posts spreading false or inconsistent information about voting procedures.
• Check the Federal Election Commission website to verify the registration status of political action committees before making donations.

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

Frequently asked questions

Who counts as an election worker under FBI guidelines?

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

What types of election crimes should voters report?

Voters should report civil rights violations, false registration info, ballot tampering, threats of harm, lies about election logistics, prohibited contributions, and misuse of campaign funds.

How can I submit a tip to the FBI about election crimes?

You can report potential crimes to your local FBI field office or submit an electronic tip, including details like names, screenshots, and contact information for those involved.