ZeroFox Intelligence Assessment - Threats to the Democratic National Convention

Product Serial: A-2024-08-06a

TLP:CLEAR

In this Intelligence Assessment, ZeroFox researchers analyze the upcoming Democratic National Convention, including potential cyber and physical security threats.

Standing Intelligence Requirements

Geopolitical and Physical GEO

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Executive Summary

The Democratic National Convention (DNC) will be held at the United Center and McCormick Place convention centers in Chicago, Illinois, from August 19–22, 2024. The two venues are approximately 5.7 miles apart. The United Center will host the event’s official proceedings and primetime speeches, while McCormick Place will be the home for non-televised DNC business. According to party officials, approximately 5,000 delegates, 12,000 volunteers, 20,000 media members, and 50,000 other visitors are expected to enter the city for the event, in addition to thousands of protesters. The recent change in the Democratic nominee for president and the July 13 assassination attempt on former President Trump just days ahead of the Republican National Convention (RNC) have likely shifted the threat landscape significantly. Potential allies, such as international diplomats and business leaders, as well as adversarial protesters and foreign intelligence agencies will likely be using the DNC to learn about a new slate of politicians, some of whom they may know little about. The event is very likely to attract a wide array of foreign interests, which increases the likelihood of espionage attempts to discern the policy positions of the possible new administration and some of its leading actors who will be in attendance at the DNC.