Microsoft and Western intelligence agencies have reported that a Chinese state-backed hacking group has been launching cyberattacks against various US vital infrastructure sectors, such as transport and telecoms. The group has also hit Guam, a key US island territory with military bases.
This is one of the biggest Chinese cyber-espionage campaigns against American vital infrastructure ever seen. The Chinese embassy in Washington has not commented on the report.
The US National Security Agency (NSA) is collaborating with partners, including Canada, New Zealand, Australia, and the UK, as well as the FBI, to detect any breaches. Microsoft researchers have “moderate confidence” that this Chinese group, known as ‘Volt Typhoon’, is developing skills that could disrupt vital communications infrastructure between the US and Asia.
As China has intensified its military and diplomatic pressure over its claim to Taiwan, security analysts warn that Chinese hackers could target US military networks and other vital infrastructure if China invades Taiwan.
Western cyber agencies are advising companies that operate vital infrastructure to spot malicious activity using the technical guidance they have issued. Microsoft has said that the Chinese hacking group has been active since at least 2021 and has targeted several industries, including communications, manufacturing, utility, transport, construction, maritime, government, information technology, and education.
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