Microsoft has reported the activity of a Chinese hacker, nicknamed “Storm-0558”, who has exploited a vulnerability in US government entities to access documents and emails from more than 25 organizations in the last month. Microsoft considers these actions as “espionage” and “data theft”.
Mandiant, a Google subsidiary focused on cybersecurity, has revealed that Chinese government-backed hackers are exploiting vulnerabilities in security servicesgaining access to numerous emails, including those from government institutions. China has denied these accusations. and has described them as “wrong and unprofessional.”
On June 16, 2023, Microsoft began an investigation after receiving a report from a user experiencing problems with their email. The user, a US government employee, sought help identifying a vulnerability in his cloud service. The hacker was determined to have accessed the individual’s messages and documents since May.
Backed by Microsoft, US government entities are collaborating to identify hackers from the “Volt Typhoon” group. These agencies claim that the activities of this group affect the entire utility network in the United States and critical infrastructure sectors. In addition, it is warned that its technology could be used for attacks in any other country.
Coordinated attacks that affect the distribution of essential services such as water, electricity, fuel, and transportation raise concern. These incidents reflect the growing tension between the United States and China., with trade sanctions, technological restrictions and concerns about the situation in Taiwan. This new episode amplifies the existing dispute between both nations.
Fountain: Microsoft
