UPDATE: A shocking cyberattack disrupted an online meeting of New Jersey’s Election Law Enforcement Commission (ELEC) on October 26, 2023, forcing an immediate cancellation. The incident occurred just 10 minutes into a routine session aimed at discussing sponsors for the state’s upcoming gubernatorial debates set for September.
The meeting was abruptly hijacked by a “Zoom bomb,” inundating attendees with a torrent of racist, antisemitic, and pornographic content. As speakers attempted to conduct business, they were interrupted by a cacophony of sirens, ringtones, and alarms. Moderators urged participants to mute their microphones, but chaos intensified as screens filled with explicit imagery, some featuring swastikas, while a song containing the N-word blared throughout the digital conference.
The disorder lasted approximately one minute before ELEC officials decided to cancel the session. In an official statement, the commission condemned the attack, stating, “Internet hackers perpetrated a vile and shocking breach of public trust.” They apologized to all participants affected by the incident.
The ELEC has since rescheduled the meeting for Tuesday, October 31, 2023, with assurances that additional safeguards will be implemented to prevent future disruptions.
This incident raises serious concerns about online security for public meetings and the integrity of electoral processes. Officials are urging all participants to remain vigilant while engaging in virtual platforms.
As this story develops, the public is left questioning the safety of online civic engagements and the potential impacts on upcoming elections in New Jersey. Stay tuned for further updates on this urgent situation.
