House Republicans Launch Investigation into Alleged Chinese Cyber Espionage Targeting Federal Agencies

House Republicans Investigate Alleged Chinese Cyber-Espionage Campaigns

House Republicans have launched an investigation into alleged Chinese cyber-espionage campaigns targeting the US State Department and Commerce Department. The probe comes after hackers breached federal government communications. The investigation is being led by House Oversight and Accountability Chair James Comer, along with Rep. Nancy Mace and Rep. Glenn Growthman. The lawmakers have sent letters to Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo, requesting more information on the reported Chinese hacking incidents.

China Suspected of Carrying Out Cyber-Espionage Campaign

Recent reports indicate that China is suspected of carrying out a cyber-espionage campaign to gain unauthorized access to sensitive computer networks. Over two dozen organizations, including some U.S. government agencies, have reportedly been breached as part of this campaign. The Department of State discovered the alleged intrusion by China on June 16, 2023. The letter to Secretary of State Antony Blinken mentions that he left for a trip to Beijing later that evening.

Concerns Over Sophisticated Cyberattacks

Lawmakers are requesting a briefing on a compromise by August 9th, as they believe that recent hacking incidents indicate that China's cyberattacks are becoming more sophisticated. The lawmakers are concerned that Chinese hackers may have the ability to access high-level computer networks and remain undetected for extended periods of time.

Hacking Incident Involving Microsoft's Office 365 System

Lawmakers have requested a briefing from Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo regarding a hacking incident that was first discovered by federal officials in June. The hacking, which affected Microsoft's Office 365 system, was made public in July. The Commerce Department took immediate action to respond to the compromise and is monitoring its systems for any further activity.

White House Releases Framework on Cybersecurity

The White House has released a framework emphasizing the importance of cybersecurity and highlighting the threats posed by China, North Korea, Russia, and Iran. According to the framework, China is considered the most significant threat, with the intent and capabilities to reshape the international order. The document warns of the need to protect both government and private sector networks from cyber attacks.