Chinese Government-Linked Hackers Breach U.S. Broadband Networks for Wiretap Requests
ICARO Media Group
### Cyber Intrusion from China Targets U.S. Broadband Networks' Wiretap Requests
In a significant cybersecurity breach, U.S. broadband providers have found their networks infiltrated by hackers linked to the Chinese government. According to The Wall Street Journal, this cyberattack specifically targeted systems used by the U.S. to make lawful wiretap requests, potentially giving hackers unauthorized access for several months or even longer.
The breach potentially allowed China to collect sensitive information about the American federal government’s court-authorized wiretapping requests. The Wall Street Journal's investigation, based on accounts from individuals with knowledge of the situation, reveals that this could have provided the hackers with crucial data over an extended period.
These allegations add to a growing list of accusations from Western governments and technology companies, claiming that Chinese hacker groups frequently attempt to gain unauthorized access to government information. However, China has consistently denied these allegations, maintaining that it does not engage in such activities.
Government officials are now expressing heightened concern over the possibility that these cyber intrusions could be employed to disrupt U.S. infrastructure and systems, especially in the case of escalating tensions or conflict between China and the U.S. The hacking group responsible, known as Salt Typhoon, presents a formidable threat to national security, the WSJ reported.
When approached for comment on this incident, the F.B.I. declined to respond to CNBC's inquiries. The situation underscores the pressing need for robust cybersecurity measures to protect national infrastructure from foreign cyber threats.