FBI Issues Warning On Surge Of Chinese Cyberattacks On US Infrastructure, Chinese FM Slams

Concerns have been raised by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) regarding Chinese efforts to covertly plant malicious software into computer networks aimed at disrupting critical US infrastructure.

It has been noted that the threat is now at "a scale greater than we'd seen before," according to FBI Director Christopher Wray. Wray mentioned that the agency is "laser-focused" on deterring the threat posed by China, capable of undermining U.S. national security. He emphasized the agency's commitment to identifying, anticipating, and disrupting such threats.

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Action Taken by US

In January, a report was issued by the U.S. Office of Public Affairs, indicating that the country "disrupted a botnet of hundreds of U.S.-based small office/home office (SOHO) routers hijacked by People's Republic of China (PRC) state-sponsored hackers."

This hacking network, known as the "Volt Typhoon," utilized privately owned routers infected with malware called "KV Botnet" to facilitate hacking into systems in the US, including key American infrastructure such as the electricity grid and water supply.

Deputy Attorney General Lisa O. Monaco emphasized the Department of Justice's efforts in disrupting national security threats in real time by eliminating the KV Botnet from hundreds of routers nationwide. FBI Deputy Director Paul Abbate reaffirmed the agency's commitment to countering cyber threats posed by Chinese actors, ensuring the safeguarding of cyberinfrastructure.

Wake-up Call for US

Wray's comments serve as a reminder to the Biden-backed administration regarding Chinese espionage operations in the country, ranging from traditional spying to hacking activities. Concerns have escalated over China's interest in infiltrating US infrastructure networks responsible for vital functions such as safe drinking water and aviation traffic.

International Cooperation

Last year, the FBI director convened with counterparts from the Five Eyes countries - US, UK, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand - in the group's first public meeting to discuss strategies for deterring Chinese espionage activities.

Chinese Foreign Ministry Slams US for Groundless Accusations

Accusations by the Chinese Foreign Ministry

On Monday, the US was criticized by the Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson, who stated that FBI director Christopher Wray had made unwarranted conclusions and groundless accusations against China regarding cyberattacks without valid evidence. The spokesperson described Wray's actions as extremely irresponsible and a distortion of facts.

Remarks Made by Christopher Wray

While attending the Munich Security Conference, Christopher Wray reportedly promoted his "China threat" theory, claiming openly that Beijing's actions to implant offensive malware in vital US infrastructure networks had reached "unprecedented" levels, as reported by the Wall Street Journal.

Response from the Chinese Foreign Ministry

In response, it was stated by Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning that China firmly opposes and cracks down on all forms of cyberattacks following the law. Additionally, it was highlighted that it is the US Cyber Force Command that openly declared the critical infrastructure of other countries as a legitimate target for US cyberattacks.