Voting for the first time? It’s a big deal, but it doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you're excited or just trying to get through it, there are a few things you’ll want to know—not just about casting your vote, but also about keeping your personal information safe while doing it.

Let’s walk through the basics and some quick cybersecurity tips to help you on election day.

How to vote for the first time

So, you're ready to cast your vote? Here’s what you need to do:

• Register to vote. The first step is registering, which can usually be done online, by mail, or in person at your local election office. Be mindful of deadlines in your state—they may be coming very soon.
• Choose a party affiliation if you want to. Depending on where you live, you might need to pick a party affiliation to vote in primaries. However, you don’t need to pick a party to vote in general elections.
• Research candidates. Use trusted websites and non-partisan guides to learn about who’s running and what they stand for.
• Figure out what documents to bring. Depending on where you live, you might need to bring ID or proof of address. Make sure to double-check the requirements, especially if you're voting for the first time.
• Look into ballot casting options. Whether it’s mail-in, absentee, or in-person voting, know your options ahead of time. Each method has its own set of rules.
• Locate your polling place. Don’t wait until the last minute. Find out where your polling location is and what hours it’s open.
• Track your ballot status. Many states offer ways to track your ballot to make sure it’s counted, especially if you're voting by mail.

Resources for first-time Voters

As a new voter, there are tons of resources available to help you get started. These tools can answer questions, guide you through the process, and help your first voting experience to go smoothly:

• Vote.gov: It’s an all-in-one place when searching for information on how to vote.
• U.S. Election Assistance Commission: Provides information on polling places, ID requirements, and more.
• Federal Voting Assistance Program: Ensures overseas citizens and service members are aware of their right to vote and have their tools and resources needed.

4 cybersecurity threats and how to avoid them

First-time voters may find themselves as targets of bad actors. Since they might not be as familiar with the process, they may be more likely to fall for scams or fake communications.

But don’t worry—we’ve got your back. Here are some common cybersecurity threats and how you can prevent them:

• Phishing scams: You might receive fake emails or texts pretending to be from election officials. Avoid clicking on suspicious links, and never provide personal information via email.
• Identity theft: Criminals could try to steal your identity to cast a fraudulent vote. Use strong passwords and enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on any accounts connected to your voting registration.
• Misinformation campaigns: Fake news spreads fast, especially around election time. Always double-check information from reliable sources before acting on it.
• Fake voting platforms: You can’t vote online in federal elections. If you receive any communication saying you can do so, don’t fall for it.

Vote confidently

Voting for the first time is a big step—and it’s even better when you know your personal information is safe. These tips may help you to vote confidently and securely.

Stay safe and go cast your vote!