The Chaser, a news outlet established by Hong Kong journalists in Britain, has reported a serious cyberattack allegedly backed by the Chinese government. This revelation came when Google notified the outlet that its company email was targeted in a high-severity attack, a threat that is said to impact only 0.1% of users globally. Although Google suggested the warning could be a false alarm, it confirmed suspicious activities indicative of attempts to compromise personal information and passwords.
In response to the warning, The Chaser promptly reviewed its online security measures and took immediate protective actions to safeguard its operations. The outlet’s statement condemned the cyber threats, describing the situation as part of an ongoing “White Terror” faced by the press in Hong Kong. The journalists, who moved to the UK three years ago seeking to work in a freer environment, expressed their determination to continue reporting despite the challenges posed by such government interference.
The timing of the attack raises concerns, especially with China’s National Day approaching. Analysts suggest that the assault on The Chaser is part of a broader strategy to intimidate Hong Kong journalists who are critical of the Chinese government, even when they operate from abroad. This underscores the difficulties faced by the diaspora media, as they navigate the precarious landscape of press freedom while being pursued by powerful state actors.
Adding to the alarm, recent reports indicate that harassment of journalists in Hong Kong has intensified, with numerous incidents of intimidation and threats reported in recent months. The Chaser’s experiences mirror these trends, highlighting the ongoing struggle for journalistic integrity and safety. As The Chaser continues its mission to provide critical reporting, the cyberattacks serve as a stark reminder of the lengths to which governments may go to silence dissent and control narratives, both at home and abroad.
