Pentagon launches first cyber operation to protect U.S. elections

The Pentagon’s Cyber Command is launching its first operation against Russian election interference by sending direct messages to Russian individuals informing them that their efforts to sow misinformation online are being tracked, the NYT reports.

Why it matters: It’s the first reported overseas cyber operation launched to protect U.S. elections. The midterm elections are exactly two weeks away.

Go deeper: Lawmakers criticize Trump’s plan to levy sanctions for foreign election meddling