Chinese state-sponsored hackers have reportedly breached U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen’s computer.
What Happened: The hackers also accessed the computers of deputy secretary Wally Adeyemo and acting under secretary Brad Smith, reported Bloomberg, citing two people familiar with the matter.
The breach managed to access less than 50 unclassified files from Yellen’s computer. The overall impact was far more extensive — with hackers accessing over 400 laptop and desktop machines, the report noted, citing a Treasury report reviewed by the publication.
The intruders identified as the “Silk Typhoon” and “UNC5221,” seem to have been focused on information about sanctions, intelligence, and international affairs. However, they did not access the department’s email or classified systems.
The hackers were also able to obtain “law enforcement sensitive” data and information on investigations by the Committee on Foreign Investment in the U.S.
The congressional aides and lawmakers on Capitol Hill were briefed about the hack on Wednesday and Thursday.
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Why It Matters: This incident is the latest in a series of cyberattacks attributed to the Chinese government, targeting key U.S. federal departments.
Last month also it was reported that the Treasury was targeted by a Chinese state-sponsored hacking group.
In November 2024, a major cyber-espionage campaign by Chinese hackers targeted U.S. telecom providers, compromising phone calls and text messages.
Earlier in the year, the Federal Bureau of Investigation had also warned of Chinese hackers potentially controlling critical U.S. infrastructure, including water-treatment facilities and energy grids.
Photo via Shutterstock.
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