Hackers ask supporters to shut down Iowa caucuses

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — A group of computer hackers is urging its supporters to shut down the Iowa caucuses.

The Des Moines Register reports Anonymous has taken credit for an online video calling for people to swamp candidates’ campaign offices in Des Moines on Dec. 27 and “peacefully shut down” the Jan. 3 caucuses.

The plea comes on the heels of Occupy Des Moines’ announcement that it would hold demonstrations around the caucuses. Occupy organizers say they don’t intend to interrupt the caucus process and deny any connection with Anonymous.

John Benson in Iowa’s Homeland Security and Emergency Management Division told the newspaper that state officials have been preparing security plans for the caucuses before the video surfaced.