What's happened
Chinese government-linked hackers have infiltrated US critical infrastructure, targeting companies in telecommunications, energy, and water sectors. FBI Director Christopher Wray and NSA Director Gen. Timothy D. Haugh have both raised alarms about China's efforts to gain access to critical networks, posing a significant threat to US infrastructure and national security.
Why it matters
The infiltration of US critical infrastructure by Chinese hackers poses a severe threat to national security, with potential implications for the functioning of essential services. The ongoing cyber campaign highlights the need for heightened cybersecurity measures and international cooperation to counter such threats effectively.
What the papers say
The FBI and NSA directors have issued warnings about the Chinese hacking campaign, emphasizing the potential for devastating impacts on US critical infrastructure. While China denies government involvement, US officials remain concerned about the cyber threats posed by Chinese actors.
How we got here
China's Volt Typhoon hacking campaign has targeted US critical infrastructure, including telecommunications, energy, and water sectors. The US government has been working to disrupt Chinese cyber efforts, with concerns raised about the vulnerability of essential services to foreign adversaries.
Common question
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What cybersecurity concerns have been raised regarding China's espionage on U.S. critical infrastructure?
China's cyber espionage efforts targeting U.S. critical infrastructure have sparked concerns among cybersecurity leaders. The NSA director has issued warnings about China's attempts to breach critical networks, while a recent cyberattack on Change Healthcare has exposed vulnerabilities in the health care sector. Explore the following FAQs to learn more about the implications of China's cyber threats on U.S. critical infrastructure.
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Which critical infrastructure sectors in the US have been targeted by Chinese hackers?
Chinese government-linked hackers have infiltrated US critical infrastructure, targeting companies in telecommunications, energy, and water sectors. The FBI and NSA directors have raised alarms about the severity of these cyber intrusions, emphasizing the significant threat they pose to US infrastructure and national security.
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The United States of America, commonly known as the United States or America, is a country mostly located in central North America, between Canada and Mexico.
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China, officially the People's Republic of China, is a country in East Asia. It is the world's most populous country, with a population of around 1.4 billion in 2019.
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The Federal Bureau of Investigation is the domestic intelligence and security service of the United States and its principal federal law enforcement agency.
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Christopher Asher Wray is an American lawyer who, since 2017, has served as Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. From 2003 to 2005 Wray served as Assistant Attorney General in charge of the Criminal Division in the George W.