The United States has imposed sanctions on Chinese hackers and companies implicated in attacks on the U.S. Department of the Treasury and telecommunications firms. Among those sanctioned are Yin Kecheng, a hacker, and Sichuan Juxinhe Network Technology, a company linked to the cyber group Salt Typhoon.
Yin Kecheng, associated with China’s Ministry of State Security (MSS), has been engaged in cyberattacks for over a decade. According to the Treasury Department, he accessed computers belonging to senior officials, including Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen. The hackers reviewed over 50 files, including information on sanctions, but failed to breach email systems or classified documents.
Salt Typhoon, first identified by Microsoft, has been active since 2019. The group targeted telecommunications companies, stealing user data, including call information of high-ranking officials. These attacks have prompted stricter security regulations.
The U.S. Treasury has proposed new measures to fortify the financial system, such as raising cybersecurity standards for third-party vendors and safeguarding information on cyber threats. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chair Jessica Rosenworcel emphasized the urgent need to update cybersecurity protocols to counter evolving threats.
Sanctions were also imposed on Sichuan Juxinhe Network Technology, accused of close ties to MSS and exploiting telecommunications systems. This move is part of the United States’ broader strategy to combat China-backed cyberattacks. Over the past year, other Chinese companies, including Sichuan Silence Information Technology, have also been subjected to sanctions.
The Treasury Department continues to collaborate with federal agencies to protect critical infrastructure and expose individuals and entities that pose a threat to national security.
