U.S. Charges Chinese Hackers in Major Cyberespionage Campaign
The U.S. charged ten Chinese hackers and two law enforcement officials for leading a global cyberespionage campaign targeting dissidents, media, and U.S. agencies. The hackers operated under the direction of China’s Ministry of Public Security as part of a broader intelligence-gathering effort. These activities highlight the extensive network of private hacking contractors that serve Chinese state interests.
The United States has charged ten Chinese hackers along with two officials from the Chinese law enforcement in a sweeping cyberespionage operation. This information was revealed by the Justice Department on Wednesday. The hacking activities, primarily conducted by the group I-Soon, were reportedly directed by China’s Ministry of Public Security, which targeted various dissidents, news organizations, and U.S. government agencies.
Notably, the U.S. Treasury Department was among the targets, having acknowledged a breach perpetrated by Chinese entities late last year. I-Soon is part of an extensive industry of private hacking firms in China, which was previously documented in an Associated Press investigation. These contractors typically steal data for the benefit of Chinese authorities.
In the last twenty years, there has been a significant increase in demand for international intelligence by Chinese state security. This escalating need has contributed to the proliferation of private hacking firms capable of infiltrating numerous foreign systems, enhancing their capabilities to gather intelligence beyond China’s borders.
In summary, the United States has taken significant action against Chinese cyber threats by charging ten hackers and two officials involved in a comprehensive espionage campaign. This initiative underscores the ongoing challenges of cyber espionage and the scale at which private hacking firms operate under the directive of Chinese authorities. The implications of such operations pose serious risks to the security of U.S. institutions and international relations.
Original Source: apnews.com
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