Chinese Hackers Target U.S. Critical Infrastructure, Says Top Cybersecurity Official

Chinese hackers are embedding themselves within U.S. critical infrastructure networks in preparation for a potential conflict, warned Morgan Adamski, executive director of U.S. Cyber Command, on Friday. Speaking at the Cyberwarcon security conference in Arlington, Virginia, Adamski detailed how these operations aim to provide China a strategic advantage in case of hostilities.

Adamski explained that Chinese-linked cyber activities are not only about espionage but also about positioning for potential disruptive attacks. These could include sabotaging energy and water control systems or tampering with server room environments, such as manipulating heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning systems.

Escalating Threats: “Salt Typhoon” Operation

Concerns have mounted following revelations of a significant cyber espionage campaign, dubbed “Salt Typhoon”, which U.S. officials attribute to China. According to the FBI, this operation has compromised telecommunications firms, stolen call records, and accessed sensitive communications, including those of leading U.S. presidential campaign officials.

Senator Mark Warner called it “the worst telecom hack in U.S. history,” underscoring the scale and severity of the breach. The FBI and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) are actively assisting potential targets to strengthen their defenses against future intrusions.

A Coordinated Response

Adamski highlighted the U.S. government’s multifaceted approach to countering these cyber threats. “We have executed globally synchronized activities, both offensively and defensively, that are laser-focused on degrading and disrupting PRC [People’s Republic of China] cyber operations worldwide,” she said.

These actions include public exposure of operations, sanctions, indictments, and advisories issued in collaboration with international partners. The U.S. has also engaged in law enforcement measures to deter and disrupt malicious actors.

Beijing Denies Involvement

China has routinely denied allegations of cyber operations targeting the U.S., with Beijing often accusing Washington of baseless accusations. The Chinese Embassy in Washington has not commented on the latest allegations.

This escalation in cyber tensions comes as both nations remain at odds over issues ranging from trade to regional security, making cyberspace a key battleground in their geopolitical rivalry. As the threat landscape evolves, U.S. officials continue to urge vigilance and stronger cybersecurity measures to safeguard critical infrastructure.