Adrian Johnson
TLDR:
Key Takeaways:
- The UK’s intelligence agency GCHQ has said a Chinese state-backed organization known as APT31 hacked into MPs email addresses and targeted the Electoral Commission.
- In the US, APT31 has been behind multiple cyber attacks against businesses and government officials.
The UK government has accused APT31, a Chinese state-affiliated organization, of hacking systems operated by the Electoral Commission and targeting Members of Parliament. APT31, also known as the Advanced Persistent Threat Group 31, has been involved in cyber espionage in both the US and UK. Western intelligence agencies have taken action against APT31, with the FBI charging 7 alleged members with conspiracy to commit computer intrusions and wire fraud.
In response to the cyber activities of APT31, the UK government has demanded an explanation from Chinese officials and summoned the Chinese Ambassador to the UK. Foreign Secretary David Cameron and Home Secretary James Cleverly have condemned the attempts to hack into democratic institutions in the UK. Despite the attempts, GCHQ assures that the upcoming elections in the UK are secure, although sensitive data from the Electoral Register may have been compromised.
GCHQ acknowledges that the stolen information could be used by Chinese intelligence services for espionage and repression purposes. While the specific MPs affected by the cyber attacks were not named, it was mentioned that they have been vocal in calling out China’s malicious activities. The UK government remains vigilant in protecting its democratic processes and institutions from foreign interference.
