In a memo sent to states earlier this year, cyber experts from the Department of Homeland Security and FBI warned that Russia could attempt to meddle in the 2020 U.S. elections by secretly advising candidates and campaigns.
The document, dated Feb. 3, was recently obtained by The Associated Press through a public records request. Titled "Possible Russian Tactics Ahead of 2020 U.S. Election," the memo states that officials have "not previously observed Russia attempt to" covertly advise candidates and campaigns, but political strategists linked to Yevgeny Prigozhin, a businessman close to Russian President Vladimir Putin, were instrumental in political campaigns in 20 African countries last year. The document did not identify any U.S. candidates or campaigns Russia might be supporting.
The memo warned of eight "high" and "moderate" threats from Russia, with one high threat being the possibility Russia could hack a campaign and put the information up online, like it did in 2016 against Hillary Clinton.
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