Electoral Commission security advice for candidates
Privacy considerations
Be aware of the privacy risks that can come with running in an election. Your information can become public through:
- social media accounts
- cars with election branding
- election advertising that includes the promoter's address
- personal details
- business cards
- mailing lists.
Having publicly available information about you online could lead to:
- phishing attempts (including by text message) to steal your login or banking details
- unauthorised access to online platforms or systems
- online scams sent through messaging apps like Facebook, Instagram or WhatsApp
- public sharing of you or your family's personal information.
What you can do
- Turn on privacy functions on all your personal accounts. This limits who can interact with you online.
- Consider using a new phone number or PO Box, especially if these are going to be linked to a public profile.
- Create separate email and social media accounts for your public campaign.
- Make sure your accounts are protected with long, strong, unique passwords and two-factor authentication.
- Keep your anti-virus software up to date on any device you use to access email.
- Do not open attachments or click on links in emails or social media messages from strangers or if you are unsure that the sender is genuine.
If you discover someone is impersonating you online, immediately contact the platform (such as Facebook or Instagram) and CERT NZ. If you believe your privacy has been breached you can contact the Privacy Commission.
Personal security
It is important to plan how to keep yourself, your supporters and the public safe and secure.
- As a candidate and if elected, you will need to be more aware of your personal and physical safety.
- Think about the security measures in place at your home and workplace. Ask yourself if they need updating or improving.
- You may be recognised more often and approached by people in public places.
- Running as a candidate means spending time with members of the public. These conversations can sometimes be unpredictable.
- Having a strong safety plan helps you take part in public life with more confidence. It also helps you stay prepared for unexpected situations.
- Plan how you travel and what steps you can take to reduce any risks that come with it.
- Be mindful of how much personal information is visible in public. This includes things like signs on your personal vehicle, your contact details or anything else that may be found through public records, social media or advertising.
- Consider your family, supporters and close friends who may have personal details linked to your own. Ask them to review how much of their information is available.
- Get advice from professional security experts. They can help you assess your risks and develop a plan that suits your situation.
