A significant cyberattack, referred to as Salt Typhoon, has been executed by Chinese hackers, leading to the compromise of sensitive information across U.S. networks, potentially impacting almost every American citizen.
Officials in cybersecurity described this breach as an extensively sophisticated and far-reaching attack. Current investigations suggest that it involves collaborations between technology companies in China and the nation’s military and intelligence sectors.
Jennifer Ewbank, the CIA’s Deputy Director for Digital Innovation, noted the impact of the attack, stating, “In many ways, Salt Typhoon marks a new chapter.” She pointed out the remarkable depth of the operation, mentioning, “We are witnessing patient, state-backed tactics deeply embedded in the systems of over 80 countries, marked by an exceptional level of technical skill, perseverance, and patience.”
Anne Neuberger, a former official in the Biden administration, stressed the wider consequences of the offensive, observing, “This operation transcends a simple intelligence gain for China.”
She elaborated on this concerning trend by adding, “It reveals a deeper, alarming reality. China is setting the stage to dominate the digital battlefield.”
The FBI disclosed that this espionage operation targeted around 600 companies, managing to access unencrypted communications and possibly intercept phone calls. Salt Typhoon builds on the legacy of preceding cyber assaults, such as those involving the Office of Personnel Management and the Microsoft email breach, highlighting a troubling strategic shift that focuses on long-term data accumulation.
Cynthia Kaiser, an FBI cyber official, made it clear just how extensive the attack was, emphasizing, “It’s hard to conceive of any American being untouched given how all-encompassing this campaign is.”
Michael Davis provides insights into U.S. politics and news for the content partner, Modern Newsstand LLC.
