US Telecom Giants Hit by Massive Chinese Cyber-Espionage Campaign
The largest telecommunications companies in the United States, including T-Mobile, AT&T, Verizon, and Lumen Technologies, have fallen victim to a sweeping cyber-espionage campaign orchestrated by China. This revelation was recently reported by The Wall Street Journal (WSJ), citing confidential sources.
An investigation led by the FBI and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) has determined that the attack was conducted by Chinese intelligence. It was discovered that the perpetrators infiltrated the networks of several major telecommunications operators.
The hackers successfully exfiltrated call data from customers, compromised private communications of select individuals linked to governmental or political activities, and accessed information regulated under U.S. law.
Experts have noted that the attackers employed highly sophisticated methods. The operation was attributed to the group Salt Typhoon, also known by the aliases GhostEmperor and FamousSparrow. Evidence of their activities points to a prolonged and meticulously planned campaign. Further investigation is expected to reveal the full scope of the breach.
Representatives from T-Mobile stated that the company is actively collaborating with industry peers and relevant agencies to mitigate further threats. Immediate measures are being implemented as new intelligence emerges.
This incident serves as yet another testament to the escalating activities of Chinese cyber groups, whose objectives center on collecting information from strategically vital sectors. It underscores the urgent need to strengthen cybersecurity defenses across all levels.
