Federal election: BfV warns against foreign powers influencing the election

The Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution (BfV) warns against possible attempts by other states to influence the upcoming federal election. “Actions of disinformation and discrediting, cyber attacks as well as espionage and sabotage must be taken into account,” said the BfV. “They aim to exert influence on decision-makers and officials in other countries in secret and under false pretenses, but also to influence the free opinion and decision-making process.” The population’s trust in the stability and integrity of the institutions should also be weakened. The BfV particularly warned against attempts to influence from Russia.

It was said that preparations were made in close cooperation with other state and federal authorities as well as in exchange with international partners and a task force was formed. According to the information, the Office for the Protection of the Constitution expects influence in particular in the cyber and information space.

Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution: Russia has the greatest interest in exerting influence

Disinformation and propaganda are a means of intentionally deceiving or influencing people. With a view to the federal election, targeted discrediting of undesirable candidates and the raising of doubts about the legality and correct conduct of the election are also conceivable.

Against the background of the Russian war of aggression against Ukraine, Russia probably has the greatest and most obvious interest in influencing the election in its own interests, it was said.

Since 2023, Russia has expanded the spread of pro-Russian and anti-Western narratives and is itself talking about being in an “information war”. The aim is to “create or deepen uncertainties and lines of division in German society, reduce the willingness to support Ukraine and, in this sense, influence political decisions.”

Cyberattacks and AI as a means of disinformation

Cyber ​​attacks could also be used to exert influence. Stealing, manipulating and publishing information is now part of the repertoire of foreign powers, including to indirectly influence elections.

AI can be used to spread disinformation. “In this way, deceptively real so-called deepfake videos or voice recordings can be created that are intended to deceive voters,” said the BfV.

Illegal influence can also be exercised via bilateral communication channels, think tanks or partnership associations, as well as through economic or scientific cooperation. For this purpose, targeted individuals, parties and movements could also be promoted and supported.