Israeli Police Warn Tech Firms to Prepare for Bot Attacks and Fake News Ahead of Elections

Amid growing concerns over the upcoming Knesset elections, the Israeli police have issued a warning to technology companies about the risks of bot usage, fake accounts, and the spread of disinformation. The head of the Police Investigations and Intelligence Division, Commissioner Boaz Balat, sent a letter urging these companies to prepare for potential misuse of automation systems and bots during the election period. He emphasized that the police intend to increase supervision and enforcement to ensure the integrity of the democratic process and prevent electoral offenses.

Balat clarified that the letter was not prompted by any specific suspicion but aimed to raise awareness, establish cooperation channels, and reduce risks during the elections. He highlighted the critical role technology firms play in protecting the digital space and public trust, encouraging responsible conduct. The letter detailed suspicious signs companies should monitor, such as coordinated use of multiple fake accounts, artificial content creation, identity concealment, and attempts to bypass platform security measures. Balat warned that aiding in identity concealment or ignoring credible suspicions could lead to legal liability.

This alert comes amid fears of foreign interference, notably from Iran, and the emergence of AI as a new factor in election-related disinformation campaigns. The Shin Bet and police are preparing to monitor hostile entities attempting to influence the elections through cyber means and social media bots. At a July parliamentary committee meeting, Shin Bet chief David Zini also warned about foreign attempts to manipulate the vote.

The police letter categorized suspicious indicators into four groups: coordinated activity by multiple fake identities, use of false identities or intermediaries, suspicious requests for personal data, and attempts to circumvent platform safeguards. Balat stressed that while a single indicator does not prove wrongdoing, a combination of signs and evasive behavior requires thorough investigation and possibly service suspension. He urged companies to report any suspected violations to the police to protect election integrity and public confidence.

The police are actively engaging with technology firms through letters and planned meetings to strengthen defenses against these evolving threats as Israel approaches its national elections.