In a recent development, China accused three individuals linked to the U.S. National Security Agency (NSA) of carrying out cyberattacks on the Asian Winter Games held in February. These attacks were allegedly conducted by operatives from the NSA’s Office of Tailored Access Operations, according to the Chinese public security bureau in Harbin. The accusations mark a significant escalation, as China typically refrains from naming individuals in such claims. This time, the allegations include specific names and technical details, although the Chinese government has not provided technical specifications, which has led to questions about the credibility of the claims.
The Chinese National Computer Virus Emergency Response Center reported that “foreign hostile forces” launched hundreds of thousands of cyberattacks on the Winter Games. The cyberattacks reportedly targeted key platforms for the games, such as registration, management of arrivals and departures, and competition entry systems. These cyberattacks were not limited to event-specific platforms, as critical infrastructure in Heilongjiang province, covering energy, transportation, telecommunications, and defense research, was also allegedly compromised. The NSA allegedly used front organizations to purchase IP addresses and anonymously rent servers in regions across Europe and Asia.
China has repeatedly expressed concerns over U.S. cyberattacks, particularly against its critical infrastructure, and called for a more responsible approach from Washington.
Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian urged the U.S. to cease cyberattacks on China, emphasizing the need for more transparent and responsible behavior regarding cybersecurity. These accusations come amid growing tensions between the U.S. and China over cybersecurity issues, with both countries accusing each other of infiltrating critical infrastructure systems.
This latest round of accusations follows a similar pattern of heightened cyber tensions between the two global powers.
The U.S. has faced its own cybersecurity challenges, with recent reports revealing Chinese hacking activities targeting U.S. critical infrastructure. In March, the Department of Justice unsealed indictments against 12 individuals accused of hacking on behalf of the Chinese government. The increasing number of cyber-espionage allegations underscores the ongoing digital conflict between Washington and Beijing, further straining relations between the two nations.
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