Photo: Ton Photograph / iStock / Getty Images
(Iowa) -- Multiple Iowa counties have reported fraudulent text messages impersonating election officials and candidates.
The Iowa Secretary of State's office says it's been made aware of the fraudulent texts and recommends Iowans take precautions, including not providing sensitive information through text messages, making donations only through a candidates official website or verified donation channels. So far, Franklin, Johnson, and Madison counties have reported the fraudulent texts regarding the upcoming elections.
The Iowa Secretary of State's office says the reported fraudulent texts read as follows:
"Hello, [NAME]. I’m [NAME], your [CITY NAME] [GOVERNMENT ROLE OR OFFICE SOUGHT], and I’m listening to residents about what matters most in our community. What issues do you think should be our top priority? Reply with your thoughts or text STOP to opt out."
Anyone who receives fraudulent texts is encouraged to report them to local law enforcement, their county auditor's office, or the Iowa Secretary of State's Office at elections@sos.iowa.gov immediately.