Israeli Digital Authority Warns of Fraud Blocking Voter Access by Hijacking Government Personal Accounts

Israel's National Digital Authority has issued a warning about a growing scam that threatens citizens' ability to vote by taking over their government personal accounts. These accounts, accessed via my.gov.il, centralize sensitive personal data and enable critical actions such as changing vehicle ownership, registering newborns, and updating residential addresses. The use of this platform has surged recently, with about 3.3 million monthly users and 5 million people having transferred vehicle ownership through it.

The scam typically begins when individuals search online for help with government services and encounter companies offering paid assistance. These companies request personal details and verification codes, effectively gaining full control over the victim's account. Once hijacked, the fraudsters can lock out the rightful owner and manipulate sensitive information, including changing the registered residential address. This can alter the victim's designated polling station, potentially preventing them from voting.

Yogev Shmni, head of technology and digital services at the Digital Authority, emphasized that this is not a technological breach but a social engineering attack exploiting psychological manipulation and moments of confusion. Victims come from diverse backgrounds and digital literacy levels. The Authority stresses the importance of awareness, especially as Israel approaches election season, to prevent loss of control over personal government accounts and safeguard voting rights.