Microsoft has warned that Russian state-sponsored campaigns to interfere with November’s US presidential election are already underway.

The Windows maker’s report claims that accounts linked to Russia that are disseminating divisive content towards US citizens have ramped up their efforts over the past month and a half, but noted that targeted campaigns are progressing slower than at a similar point than in previous elections.

The company however warned that while Russian activity is not as intense as around previous elections, it could increase in the coming months.

In its report, the company said: "Messaging regarding Ukraine - via traditional media and social media - picked up steam over the last two months with a mix of covert and overt campaigns from at least 70 Russia-affiliated activity sets we track.”

Microsoft found that one of the most prolific campaigns was linked to Russia’s Presidential Administration, with another one aimed at posting disinformation in various languages disguised as whistleblowers or citizen journalists. Such content has subsequently been covered by US news outlets.

The company added: “Ultimately, after the narrative has circulated online for a series of days or weeks, U.S. audiences repeat and repost this disinformation, likely unaware of its original source."

The report also pointed towards a Russian hacking group dubbed Star Blizzard (AKA Cold River) which is focused on targeting western think tanks, and the malicious use of artificial intelligence by US adversaries to spread disinformation.

The Kremlin last month said that it would not interfere with the presidential election, and dismissed allegations that it carried out misinformation campaigns in 2016 and 2020.

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