
Chinese hackers have reportedly accessed the networks of several U.S. telecommunications companies, obtaining sensitive information related to court-authorized wiretapping systems. According to a recent report by the Wall Street Journal, major companies affected include Verizon Communications, AT&T, and Lumen Technologies.
Investigators believe the hackers may have had access to these networks for months, potentially compromising data and systems essential for U.S. law enforcement. This breach raises alarming concerns regarding the security of telecommunications infrastructure and the integrity of court-ordered surveillance operations.
In a statement addressing the allegations, China’s foreign ministry claimed ignorance of the reported attack, arguing that the U.S. government is fabricating a false narrative against China. They emphasized that cybersecurity threats require international dialogue and cooperation, not accusations.
The hacking group involved has been dubbed “Salt Typhoon” by U.S. investigators. This incident follows earlier confrontations with Chinese cyber groups, including “Flax Typhoon,” which were targeted by U.S. law enforcement earlier this year amid ongoing allegations of cyber espionage.
The breach highlights the vulnerabilities within the U.S. telecommunications infrastructure, particularly concerning systems used to comply with court orders. Experts express concerns that these vulnerabilities could be exploited for further intelligence gathering by foreign adversaries.
As of now, Verizon, AT&T, and Lumen Technologies have not responded to inquiries about the breach, leaving stakeholders worried about the implications for customer privacy and national security.