Cyber Espionage Drama: Italian Police Nab Chinese Hacker on US Warrant at Milan Airport
Italian police arrested a Chinese national linked to Silk Typhoon APT group at Milan’s Malpensa Airport on a U.S. warrant. Accused of cyberespionage, the suspect allegedly targeted U.S. government and COVID-19 vaccine research. His family insists he’s an innocent IT technician, while his lawyer deems the allegations “fanciful.”
Hot Take:
When your travel itinerary includes a surprise layover in Handcuffs City, you might want to rethink your vacation plans. Zewei Xu learned the hard way that Milan’s Malpensa Airport isn’t just a gateway to Italian gelato and fashion, but also a prime spot for international cybercrime busts. Who knew catching a flight could land you in a conspiracy theory?
Key Points:
- Zewei Xu, a Chinese national, was arrested at Milan’s Malpensa Airport on July 3rd on a U.S. warrant.
- Xu is linked to the Silk Typhoon APT group, accused of cyberespionage against the U.S., including the 2020 attack on COVID-19 vaccine research.
- He faces extradition proceedings in Italy, with charges like wire fraud, ID theft, and unauthorized computer access.
- His family claims Xu is merely an innocent IT technician working for Shanghai GTA Semiconductor Ltd.
- Italian police have seized Xu’s documents and devices as part of the investigation.
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