California Has New Cybersecurity Agency To Combat Election Tampering, Fake Info

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SACRAMENTO (AP) -- California is creating an office of elections cybersecurity to combat cyber threats and false information online.

Gov. Jerry Brown signed legislation Tuesday creating the office under the secretary of state.

The state budget included $2 million annually for the office.

It will work with state, local and federal agencies to share information about cyber threats, develop emergency preparedness plans and recommend ways to protect election infrastructure.

The office would also be in charge of counteracting false information about the electoral process online, such as the date elections are being held or how to register to vote.

Critics say that could lead to the suppression of speech. But supporters argue the office will target false information about the voting process and not regulate political opinions.