This is your Cyber Sentinel: Beijing Watch podcast.
Hey there, I'm Ting, and welcome to Cyber Sentinel: Beijing Watch. Let's dive right into the latest on Chinese cyber activities affecting US security.
Over the past few days, we've seen a significant uptick in Chinese state-backed hacking attempts. Just last week, the US Treasury Department sanctioned Sichuan Juxinhe Network Technology Co., LTD., a cybersecurity company linked to the Salt Typhoon cyber group, which compromised the network infrastructure of multiple major US telecommunication and internet service provider companies[1]. This is part of a broader pattern of Chinese cyber aggression, as highlighted in the recent Office of the Director of National Intelligence Annual Threat Assessment.
But it's not just the US that's under attack. Taiwan's National Security Bureau reported a staggering 2.4 million cyber-attacks on government networks in 2024, double the number from 2023, with most attributed to Chinese state-backed hackers[2]. These attacks are designed to steal confidential data, exploit vulnerabilities in Netcom devices, and even use social engineering techniques to target Taiwanese civil servants.
Now, let's talk about the tactics. Chinese hackers are using a range of techniques, including phishing attacks, compromise of zero-day vulnerabilities, and the use of Trojans and backdoors. They're also employing evasion techniques like living-off-the-land and using DDoS attacks to harass and intimidate Taiwan's transportation and financial sectors.
But what's really concerning is the strategic implications. China's cyber-attacks are not just about stealing data; they're about disrupting critical infrastructure and undermining the credibility of the Taiwanese government. And it's not just Taiwan; the US is also a prime target. The FBI and CISA have identified that PRC-affiliated actors have compromised networks at multiple telecommunications companies to enable the theft of customer call records data and private communications[5].
So, what can we do about it? First, we need to stay vigilant and keep our defenses up. That means implementing robust cybersecurity measures, including regular software updates, strong passwords, and two-factor authentication. We also need to share threat information in real-time, just like Taiwan's joint security defense mechanism.
In conclusion, Chinese cyber activities are a serious threat to US security, and we need to take action. As Deputy Secretary of the Treasury Adewale O. Adeyemo said, "The Treasury Department will continue to use its authorities to hold accountable malicious cyber actors who target the American people, our companies, and the United States government." Let's stay ahead of the game and keep our cyber defenses strong. That's all for now; stay safe, and I'll catch you in the next episode of Cyber Sentinel: Beijing Watch.
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