In response to accusations of "state-sponsored" cyberattacks from the US and the UK, China asserted itself as a victim of such actions and offered collaboration to address cybersecurity challenges. Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian emphasized China's opposition to all forms of cyberattacks and its commitment to working with other nations to strengthen cooperation against cybersecurity threats through channels such as bilateral dialogue or judicial assistance.
This statement from Beijing coincided with Washington charging seven Chinese nationals on Monday for their alleged involvement in a state-sponsored hacking campaign targeting US and foreign critics of China, businesses, and political officials. These individuals are purportedly linked to the Advanced Persistent Threat 31 hacker group (APT31 Group). Similarly, the UK government accused China on Monday of launching cyberattacks on the Electoral Commission and parliamentarians between 2021 and 2022, attributing the activity to the China state-affiliated Advanced Persistent Threat Group 31 (APT31).
In response to these accusations, Lin mentioned that Beijing provided technical clarifications and responses regarding the alleged APT31-related information submitted by the British side, criticizing the evidence as inadequate and lacking professionalism. However, there has been no further response from the British side, according to Lin.
Additionally, New Zealand expressed concerns to Beijing about an alleged breach of its parliament by a Chinese "state-sponsored" group, identified as PRC state-sponsored APT40. The breach reportedly occurred in 2021.
Lin accused Washington of promoting disinformation through the Five Eyes Alliance, the world's largest intelligence network, to exaggerate threats posed by Chinese hackers. He criticized the US for hyping up "Chinese cyberattacks" and imposing unilateral sanctions against China, stating that Beijing had lodged strong complaints with the US and relevant parties. Lin also mentioned that Chinese cybersecurity institutions had released reports on US government cyberattacks on China and other countries, urging the US to adopt a responsible approach in cyberspace and refrain from unjustly framing innocent parties.
News ID : 3089