Hack Attack: Chinese Cyber Espionage Strikes U.S. Treasury’s OFAC!
Chinese state-backed hackers, known as “Salt Typhoon,” have reportedly breached the Treasury Department’s OFAC, aiming to gather intelligence on potential sanctions. While the hackers also targeted other Treasury offices, their access has been cut off. In light of these events, CISA advises officials to use encrypted messaging apps like Signal to prevent communication breaches.
Hot Take:
Looks like the Chinese state-backed hackers have been taking a page from Ocean’s Eleven, but with fewer heists and more hacking. They’ve managed to breach the Office of Foreign Assets Control, diving into a treasure trove of sensitive information faster than you can say “economic sanctions.” Who knew international espionage could be this much of a page-turner?
Key Points:
- Chinese state-sponsored hackers, dubbed “Salt Typhoon,” breached the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) via the BeyondTrust platform.
- The hackers specifically targeted OFAC to gather intel on potential Chinese sanctions.
- This breach is part of a broader cyber-espionage campaign affecting multiple U.S. entities, including nine telecom firms.
- U.S. officials are still assessing the full impact of the breach, but state the hackers no longer have access.
- The U.S. government is taking steps to secure telecom networks and consider banning China Telecom’s U.S. operations.
Already a member? Log in here