Hacked Vacation: Alleged Chinese Cybercriminal Caught in Italy Amidst Cyber Espionage Drama
A Chinese national, Xu Zewei, linked to the state-sponsored hacking group Silk Typhoon, was arrested in Italy. Accused of cyberattacks and identity theft, Xu claims innocence, suggesting identity theft. Meanwhile, the US awaits Italy’s extradition decision, and Silk Typhoon keeps on hacking.
Hot Take:
Move over, James Bond! We’ve got hacking drama straight out of a spy movie, complete with international intrigue, shadowy organizations, and tech wizardry. Xu Zewei’s Italian vacation turned from a romantic getaway to a courtroom drama faster than you can say “Silk Typhoon.” The plot twist? His defense is a classic: “It wasn’t me; it was the other guy!”
Key Points:
- Chinese national Xu Zewei arrested in Italy, accused of being part of the Silk Typhoon hacking group.
- Silk Typhoon, formerly known as Hafnium, implicated in major cyberattacks, including on the US Treasury.
- Xu and accomplice Zhang Yu charged over cyberattacks from 2020 to 2021 for China’s Ministry of State Security.
- Allegations include targeting COVID-19 research and exploiting Microsoft Exchange zero-days.
- Xu claims identity theft in Italian court; faces extradition to the US and potential hefty prison time.
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