US Accuses China of Hacking Federal Agencies, Seizes Platforms

The United States has formally accused Chinese hackers of orchestrating cyberattacks against several critical government agencies. This development follows the Justice Department’s seizure of two specific hacking platforms allegedly deployed in the extensive campaign.

The seized platforms, identified as “QScan” and “QTRouter,” were reportedly operated by Nanjing Xinjiuwei Network Technology Company. Investigations indicate the company’s clientele included China’s military, the People’s Liberation Army, and its civilian intelligence agency, the Ministry of State Security.

Key Targets Identified

The implicated infrastructure has been active since at least 2018, according to an affidavit. Among the targeted entities were various high-profile US government agencies, including the Justice Department, NASA, the Federal Reserve, and the Senate.

Further victims encompassed the National Institutes of Health, the U.S. Department of Energy, and the Department of Health and Human Services. Additionally, four specific South Korean and American businesses were also listed as having been compromised.

Cybersecurity experts frequently observe that private contractors often execute significant intrusions on behalf of diverse Chinese government entities. This pattern underscores a common operational model in such state-sponsored cyber activities.

The seizure of these hacking platforms and the public accusation highlight ongoing efforts to counter sophisticated cyber threats. Such actions aim to disrupt long-standing campaigns against sensitive networks and critical infrastructure globally.