Following allegations from the United States and its allies, Britain and New Zealand, China issued a “strong” response, denying claims that it orchestrated cyberattacks against legislators and democratic institutions.
The trio of nations presented a coordinated front, detailing a history of cyber intrusions they attribute to China, aiming to hold Beijing accountable.
China, via Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian, refuted these accusations, condemning the United States for misusing the FiveEyes intelligence partnership to spread what it considers misinformation about Chinese cyber threats.
The U.S. recently unveiled details of a 14-year cyberespionage campaign it alleges was designed to further China’s intelligence and economic objectives. Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco highlighted that this operation targeted various U.S. and international entities.
APT31, identified by the Justice Department as the group behind these activities, is described as a cyberespionage unit linked to China’s Ministry of State Security, operating out of Wuhan. Seven individuals have been charged for compromising email and cloud storage accounts.
The U.K. has also come forward, noting that APT31 targeted accounts belonging to British legislators, particularly those critical of China’s policies. With a general election looming, Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden disclosed a suspected compromise of the Electoral Commission by a “Chinese state-affiliated entity,” assuring, however, that electoral integrity remains intact.
Britain responded by sanctioning two individuals and a company linked to APT31 and summoned China’s top diplomat in London to protest the cyberattacks.
Similarly, New Zealand reported a breach by APT40, another group it claims is backed by China, targeting its law-making body.
The situation highlights Western countries’ increasing readiness to attribute cyberattacks to nations like China, Russia, North Korea, and Iran. In response, China has accused the U.S. of cyberespionage and called for American transparency regarding its cyber operations.
