The DOJ has unsealed charges that seven hackers working for the government of China have targeted U.S. government officials across multiple agencies and Congress over a 14-year period.
The group is accused of targeting the White House, the Departments of Justice, Commerce, Treasury, and State, and members of Congress of both major parties, including spouses of officials. The allegations mesh with analysis showing foreign attempts to affect the outcome of the 2020 elections. “The Justice Department will not tolerate efforts by the Chinese government to intimidate Americans who serve the public, silence the dissidents who are protected by American laws, or steal from American businesses,” said Attorney General Merrick Garland. The Treasury Department also levied sanctions against Wuhan XRZ, believed to have carried out operations on behalf of a hacking group APT31; the State Department has offered a $10 million reward for information.
Sources:
- Nextgov/FCW: US Accuses Chinese Hackers of 14-Year Campaign Targeting Government Officials
- CyberScoop: US and UK Accuse China of Cyber Operations Targeting Domestic Politics
- Reuters: US, UK Accuse China of Cyberespionage that Hit Millions of People
- Department of Justice: Seven Hackers Associated with Chinese Government Charged with Computer Intrusions Targeting Perceived Critics of China and U.S. Businesses and Politicians
