Security officials have determined that Chinese state-backed hackers orchestrated two “malicious” digital campaigns targeting democratic institutions and politicians in the UK.
The UK holds China accountable for a cyberattack on its electoral commission, where the Chinese government allegedly accessed personal information of approximately 40 million voters.
The National Cyber Security Center, part of GCHQ, revealed that four British MPs critical of the Chinese government were targeted in a separate attack but were able to identify and prevent any compromise before it occurred.
The UK has imposed sanctions on two individuals and a front company associated with the Chinese state-backed cyber group APT31, believed to be behind the hack. “Beijing’s attempts to interfere in Britain’s democracy and politics have not succeeded,” noted Oliver Dowden.
Dowden emphasized that protecting democratic institutions is a top priority for the UK government and vowed to continue calling out and holding the Chinese government accountable for such activities.
The Foreign Office will summon the Chinese ambassador to answer for these actions, with Dowden stating that strong action will be taken if UK interests are threatened.
Since the cyberattacks in 2021 and 2022, the UK has bolstered its cyber defenses, established a Democracy Defense Task Force, and enacted the National Security Act of 2023 to empower security agencies to thwart hostile activities.
Members of Congress targeted by the cyberattacks are expected to be named by the government as victims of a Chinese state-sponsored cyber attack.
Former Conservative Party leader Iain Duncan Smith called for a new approach to the UK’s relationship with China, recognizing the modern Chinese Communist Party for what it is.
China denied the accusations, stating that the cyberattack claims are fabricated and defamatory, and that they do not condone cyberattacks.
Prime Minister David Cameron addressed the cyberattacks directly with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, condemning the targeting of UK democratic institutions.
The UK remains vigilant in protecting its values and democracy from threats, and emphasizes the importance of awareness of such threats for all countries.
Source: www.theguardian.com
