The Chinese government has been accused by the British government of being responsible for two major cyber attacks in the country, according to Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden. The attacks targeted democratic institutions and parliamentarians, and were carried out by actors linked to the Chinese state. This behavior demonstrates hostility from China and undermines cybersecurity efforts.
Two individuals associated with a group known as APT 31 have been sanctioned in connection with these attacks. It is believed that the Chinese state-backed group was attempting to conduct espionage activities targeting British parliamentarians in 2021. Fortunately, these attempts were thwarted. Additionally, the British Electoral Commission was the target of a complex cyber attack in both 2021 and 2022, which was also unsuccessful.
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has previously referred to China as an “epochal challenge.” However, the Chinese government has denied the allegations, claiming that they are actually victims of cyber attacks themselves. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian emphasized the complexity and sensitivity of investigating the origins of cyber attacks and called for objective evidence rather than spreading unfounded accusations.
In light of these developments, it is crucial for all parties involved to refrain from disseminating false information and focus on addressing cybersecurity threats in a constructive manner. The ongoing tensions between British and Chinese authorities highlight the need for enhanced cooperation and transparency in combating cyber threats on a global scale.
