China-Linked Hackers Pose significant Cyber Threat,Rivaling Major Powers
A recently released joint statement from international data security experts reveals a concerning escalation in cyber activity linked to China. The group,identifying the threat actor as “Salt Typhoon,” asserts that the scale and sophistication of their attacks are comparable to those conducted by the United States and its allies.
For years, Salt Typhoon has engaged in extensive cyberattacks targeting a broad range of sectors globally. Thes include telecommunications, government infrastructure, transportation, logistics, and military architecture. National security officials warn that stolen information could be leveraged to target politicians,intelligence operatives,and individuals involved in operational advocacy through global communication systems.
The joint statement was signed by officials from Canada, Finland, Germany, Italy, Japan, spain, the United Kingdom, and the United States, representing a unified public condemnation of Chinese government-led online operations.
Cynthia Kaiser, a former senior FBI official, emphasized the potential impact on the United States, stating it is “impossible to imagine that Americans could be spared from actions of this scale.” While the precise intent – whether broad information gathering or accidental acquisition of sensitive data – remains unclear, the scope of the Salt Typhoon attacks surpasses previous encounters with national security threats.Security experts characterize Salt Typhoon as a strategic rival, demonstrating a new level of network action capability for China. This activity underscores Beijing’s ambition to expand its global influence, a sentiment echoed by the recent large-scale military parade held in Tiananmen Square.
Jennifer Ewbank, former deputy director of the CIA‘s digital innovation department, highlighted a shift in China’s cyber tactics. Previously focused on stealing economic secrets and personal data, China is now demonstrably capable of complex, stable, and resilient attacks targeting the infrastructure of over 80 countries.
Investigations indicate that Salt Typhoon began operations in 2019 and has been linked to three Chinese technology companies,though this connection was not publicly disclosed until last year. The group operates outside of china, serving both the People’s Liberation Army and civilian intelligence agencies. Their objectives include identifying targets for Chinese officials, understanding their communication methods, and gathering information about their activities – even targeting the mobile phones of prominent politicians, including the U.S. President and Vice President during last year’s election.The Chinese Embassy in London has not responded to inquiries regarding the allegations.
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