America’s elections are the foundation of our democracy and protecting them is a top FBI priority.

Potential election threats range from foreign influence and cyber operations to campaign finance crimes, voter or ballot fraud and civil rights violations. Foreign adversaries pose a significant threat to election integrity through their attempts to polarize the public or suppress votes by spreading false information on social media.

While states have the primary responsibility for ensuring fair elections, the FBI plays an important role. The FBI investigates federal election crimes and election-related civil rights violations and works closely with partners at every level of government, including the U.S. Justice Department, Homeland Security and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, to identify and mitigate election interference.

These partnerships are critical, but success depends on help from the American public. Every voter can protect their voice by learning about foreign influence tactics, relying on trusted sources for election information and viewing social media with a critical eye.

The FBI offers information and guidance through our Protected Voices initiative found at www.fbi.gov/ProtectedVoices.

Tips regarding possible election crimes can be made anony- mously to the FBI Richmond Field Office at (804) 261-1044, or online at tips.fbi.gov.

Americans have a right to expect honest and open elections, to trust the outcome and know their vote made a difference. Your voice matters. Help us protect it.

DAVID W. ARCHEY

Special Agent in Charge

FBI Richmond Field Office