FBI Director Warns of Chinese Hackers Threatening US Infrastructure
In a dramatic public warning, FBI Director Christopher Wray alerted the House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party about the imminent threat posed by Chinese hackers to the United States. Wray stated that China’s hackers are actively positioning themselves on American infrastructure with the intention to cause real-world harm and wreak havoc on US citizens and communities. This warning underscores the alarming level of concern within the highest levels of the US government regarding the potential damage that Chinese hackers could inflict on critical infrastructure nationwide.
Wray’s testimony comes as no surprise, as cyber officials have long been sounding the alarm about China’s offensive cyber capabilities. However, his public address highlights the urgency and seriousness of the situation. The head of the National Security Agency and other senior US officials also testified before the panel, emphasizing the extent of Chinese cyber activity and its potential consequences.
According to Wray, Chinese government-backed hackers are specifically targeting critical infrastructure such as water treatment plants, electrical infrastructure, and oil and natural gas pipelines. Their objective is to find and prepare to destroy or degrade these civilian systems, which are essential for ensuring the safety and prosperity of the American nation. Wray emphasized that cyber threats to critical infrastructure pose real-world dangers to physical safety.
It is worth noting that the Chinese government has consistently denied allegations of hacking efforts in the past. However, US officials remain wary and cautious, especially in light of recent attempts to ease tensions between the two superpowers. During a meeting in November, Chinese President Xi Jinping assured US President Joe Biden that China would not interfere in the upcoming 2024 US election. While this assurance was reiterated by the Chinese foreign minister to Biden’s national security adviser, Wray expressed skepticism, stating, “China’s promised a lot of things over the years, so I’ll guess I’ll believe it when I see it.”
The focus of the House hearing was primarily on Chinese hackers infiltrating computer networks at ports, energy plants, and other critical infrastructure in the US. Jen Easterly, the leader of the US Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, emphasized that the Chinese cyber actors have exploited basic flaws in American technology. The inherent insecurity of the technology used in critical infrastructure has made it easy for hackers to infiltrate these systems. Easterly asserted that decades of software developers not being held liable for defective technology have led to a prioritization of features and speed over security.
The FBI and Justice Department have previously emphasized their commitment to preventing malign campaigns by the Chinese government and hackers. Recent reports indicate that federal law enforcement has taken action to remove malicious code from devices at the center of the Chinese hacking campaign. However, these hackers are believed to be deeply entrenched in US infrastructure.
US officials are facing a significant challenge due to the sheer number of Chinese cyber operatives. Wray revealed that China’s cyber operatives outnumber FBI agents by at least 50 to 1. Gen. Paul Nakasone, the head of the National Security Agency, echoed this concern, emphasizing the ongoing need for vigilance against these persistent threats.
Wray also highlighted that China’s efforts extend beyond technology, as they aim to target American freedoms and manipulate citizens and residents. Their actions reach inside US borders, posing a serious threat to the nation’s values and security.
In conclusion, FBI Director Christopher Wray’s warning about Chinese hackers threatening US infrastructure underscores the urgent need for action. The potential harm that these hackers could inflict on critical systems is a matter of great concern for the US government. It is crucial for officials to address the vulnerabilities in American technology and remain vigilant against persistent cyber threats. The stakes are high, and protecting the nation’s critical infrastructure is paramount to ensuring the safety and prosperity of American citizens and communities.
This story will continue to develop, and further updates are expected as efforts to counter Chinese cyber activity progress.
[Contributor: Evan Perez, CNN]
