Major US Companies Hit by Chinese Hackers
Several major US internet service providers were hacked few days back. Verizon, AT&T and Lumen Technologies have all been affected. The hackers are believed to be connected to the Chinese government. They were part of a group called "Salt Typhoon". This group is known for targeting government agencies and telecom companies around the world.
How Did They Get In?
The hackers broke into networks that handle sensitive US government data. This includes systems used for court authorized wiretaps. Wiretaps are devices that allow law enforcement to listen in on conversations while investigating. The hackers may have had access to this information for months before anyone noticed.
It's still unclear how much data was stolen. Or even what information the hackers were able to take away. However experts believe the hackers might have been spying on US communications.
Why Is This Important?
This breach is a big deal for national security. Wiretaps are meant to help keep the public safe. But if foreign hackers can listen in it creates major security risks.
Who Is Salt Typhoon?
Salt Typhoon is a hacking group. They mainly focuses on spying and collecting intelligence. The group has been active since 2019 and has attacked companies in many countries. This includes Brazil, South Africa and France. The goal of these attacks is often to gather information on government agencies and businesses. In this case they targeted US internet providers to tap into important government systems.
What Happens Next?
The US government has collaborated with private security companies to investigate this attack. They are trying to figure out how the hackers got in and what information they accessed. The investigation is still in early levels. It's possible that the hackers also attacked similar companies in other countries.
Impact on US - China Relations
This attack could worsen tensions between the US and China. The two countries are already in conflict over trade, technology and cybersecurity. With this new breach the US may take stronger action to prevent future cyberattacks. US may implement stricter regulations on foreign technology.
In the meantime both the government and private companies are trying to secure their systems against similar breaches in the future.
