In a major development, seven individuals from the People's Republic of China (PRC) have been charged with conspiracy to commit computer intrusions and conspiracy to commit wire fraud. The indictment, which was unsealed today, reveals the involvement of a PRC-based hacking group that targeted U.S. and foreign critics, businesses, and political officials over a span of 14 years.

The defendants, identified as Ni Gaobin, Weng Ming, Cheng Feng, Peng Yaowen, Sun Xiaohui, Xiong Wang, and Zhao Guangzong, are believed to be residing in China. The indictment alleges that these individuals were part of a hacking group known as Advanced Persistent Threat 31 (APT31), backed by the PRC government.

According to the indictment, the APT31 Group conducted a number of cyber attacks, including sending more than 10,000 malicious emails to thousands of victims across multiple continents. These emails, appearing to be from prominent news outlets or journalists, contained hidden tracking links that enabled the defendants to gather sensitive information from the recipients. This information was then used for targeted hacking, compromising email accounts, home routers, and other electronic devices.

The targets of these cyber attacks included journalists, political officials, and companies critical of the Chinese regime. The APT31 Group's activities aimed to silence dissidents protected by American laws, compromise government institutions, and steal valuable trade secrets and intellectual property.

The indictment sheds light on the extent of China's cyber espionage and transnational repression activities worldwide. The U.S. Department of Justice, in collaboration with foreign partners, remains committed to disrupting and holding cyber criminals accountable for their actions.

Attorney General Merrick B. Garland stated, "The Justice Department will not tolerate efforts by the Chinese government to intimidate Americans who serve the public, silence dissidents, or steal from American businesses." Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco emphasized that the Department of Justice will diligently pursue cyber criminals who undermine democracies and threaten national security.

FBI Director Christopher Wray warned that the FBI will continue to send a clear message to China that cyber espionage will not be tolerated. He emphasized the FBI's commitment to protecting the nation's security and prosperity, and upholding democracy.

The indictment also reveals the APT31 Group's targeting of U.S. government officials, politicians, and campaign personnel from both major political parties. Additionally, numerous U.S. companies operating in vital sectors, including defense, information technology, finance, and manufacturing, were targeted by the group.

The defendants' actions, as outlined in the indictment, highlight the need for heightened cybersecurity measures and protection of sensitive information from foreign intelligence services. With the U.S. Intelligence Community's recent assessment that China may attempt to influence the 2024 U.S. elections, political organizations and candidates are urged to remain vigilant.

The indictment serves as a significant step in exposing China's persistent and audacious attempts to undermine cybersecurity and target Americans and their innovation. The U.S. Department of Justice remains dedicated to disrupting malicious cyber activities and safeguarding citizens, businesses, and critical infrastructure.

As the legal proceedings progress, it is expected that further revelations will shed light on China's state-sponsored hacking apparatus and their extensive cyber operations aimed at achieving economic espionage and foreign intelligence objectives.