What's happened
China-backed hackers breached the UK Electoral Commission's systems, accessing voter data of 40 million people. APT31, a Chinese state-affiliated group, targeted MPs' email accounts. Deputy PM Dowden announced sanctions against individuals and a firm linked to the cyber attacks.
Why it matters
The breach of UK voter data by China-backed hackers raises concerns about cybersecurity and foreign interference in democratic processes. The government's response, including sanctions, aims to deter future attacks and protect national security.
What the papers say
The Mirror criticizes Tory ministers for a 'feeble' response, with MP Robert Jenrick calling it inadequate. Metro reports on Deputy PM Dowden blaming APT31 for the cyber attacks and imposing sanctions. The Independent highlights the NCSC attributing the attacks to China-backed actors and the compromise of the Electoral Commission's systems.
How we got here
China-backed cyber actors targeted UK parliamentarians and the Electoral Commission, compromising voter data and attempting to infiltrate MPs' accounts. APT31 has a history of cyber attacks on government entities globally.
Common question
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The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, commonly known as the United Kingdom or Britain, is a sovereign country located off the northÂwestern coast of the European mainland.
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Oliver James Dowden, CBE is a British politician who, since February 2020, serves as HM Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport.
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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.