The United States and United Kingdom have levelled accusations against China for conducting a protracted series of cyber-attacks aimed at compromising key institutions, with the US Justice Department charging seven Chinese nationals in a decade-spanning espionage operation. The UK also cites attempts to target its democratic processes, leading to increased cybersecurity measures and international tensions.
The United States and United Kingdom have accused China of conducting a series of sophisticated cyber-attacks targeting various entities across both nations. The US Justice Department disclosed that seven Chinese nationals were charged in connection with a decade-long cyber espionage campaign that affected thousands globally, including US officials, foreign critics of China, as well as businesses in the defence, telecommunications, and finance sectors. This operation involved sending over 10,000 malicious emails designed to compromise individuals’ online privacy and gather sensitive information.
The UK has similarly accused Chinese hackers of targeting its democratic institutions, including the Electoral Commission and Members of Parliament, with the alleged intent of espionage and repression of dissent against Xi Jinping’s government. The Foreign Office announced sanctions against individuals and a front company linked to these cyber-attacks, emphasizing that such actions are deemed “completely unacceptable”. The Foreign Secretary and Deputy Prime Minister have made official statements condemning these attacks, reflecting a concerted effort to safeguard the nation’s cybersecurity and democratic integrity.
Despite the significant breaches, there is no evidence to suggest the UK’s electoral system was directly impacted. The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) has updated cybersecurity advice for political organisations in light of the events, aiming to ensure the security of upcoming elections.
Both the US and UK’s announcements highlight an ongoing issue of cyber warfare and underline the challenges posed by state-affiliated cyber-attacks on global security and diplomacy. China has denied these accusations, denouncing them as “fabricated and malicious slanders”, and insists on its opposition to cyber-attacks and the politicisation of cybersecurity issues.
The revelations from the US and UK have led to increased calls for stronger measures to combat cyber threats and safeguard national security and democratic values against foreign interference.