The FBI announced Wednesday that it has uncovered a widespread Chinese espionage effort targeting U.S. telecommunications networks. The operation, described as “broad and significant,” focuses on Americans in government and politics, raising alarms about Beijing’s cyber activities.
The campaign included a hacking operation that installed malicious software on over 200,000 U.S. devices, disrupted by the FBI in September. Investigators revealed that hackers affiliated with the Chinese government have also sought access to customer call records, targeting individuals with ties to sensitive technological and governmental information.
Stories like this come out every day. So, I ask again, WHY are Illinoisans forced to subsidize CCP-backed Gotion? Dump Gotion NOW, Gov. Pritzker or Trump will do it for you.https://t.co/SmyFuTtios pic.twitter.com/qs4b07uGq4
— Jeanne Ives (@JeanneIves) November 15, 2024
Notably, the phones of President-elect Donald Trump, Vice President-elect JD Vance, and Vice President Kamala Harris’ presidential campaign were reportedly among the targets. While the FBI did not name specific individuals, it confirmed that those targeted were primarily involved in government or political activities.
FBI confirms Chinese hackers accessed US government official devices, networks. https://t.co/KpUTHHmx69 #fbi #securitybreach
— Robert Morton (@Robert4787) November 15, 2024
The FBI and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) are working to assist victims and strengthen defenses in the commercial communications sector. In a joint statement, the agencies said, “We expect our understanding of these compromises to grow as the investigation continues.”
FBI probe into Chinese hacking finds ‘broad and significant’ espionage campaign https://t.co/sGiqroBsFS
— The Hill (@thehill) November 14, 2024
China has rejected the accusations, denying any involvement in cyber espionage. However, the FBI’s findings suggest a deliberate and coordinated effort by Beijing to infiltrate U.S. networks and steal critical information.
Investigation into Chinese hacking reveals ‘broad and significant’ spying effort, FBI says https://t.co/AcWchyfYwv
— General Spalding (@robert_spalding) November 14, 2024
As the investigation unfolds, federal agencies are urging organizations to report suspected breaches and take immediate steps to enhance cybersecurity measures. This latest revelation highlights the escalating cyber threat posed by foreign adversaries and the need for robust defenses.
