Chinese Hackers Launch Widespread Cyber Assault on US Software and Law Firms Amid Trade Tensions

Chinese Hackers Breach US Software and Law Firms Amid Trade Fight A sophisticated campaign of cyberattacks by suspected Chinese hackers has compromised the security of numerous US software developers and law firms, according to a report by cybersecurity firm Mandiant. The hackers' goal is to collect intelligence that could aid Beijing in its ongoing trade fight with Washington. Mandiant, owned by Google, revealed on Wednesday that the hackers have been targeting cloud-computing firms used by many American companies to store sensitive data. In some cases, the hackers have remained undetected for over a year, quietly collecting intelligence and using it to find new vulnerabilities in networks. "This is a classic example of an 'advanced persistent threat' (APT) campaign," said Kevin Mandia, CEO of Mandiant. "The attackers are highly sophisticated and well-funded, with a clear goal of gathering intelligence that can be used to China's advantage." The hacking campaign began in recent weeks, coinciding with the Trump administration's escalation of America's trade war with China this spring. The tit-for-tat tariffs have set off a scramble in both governments to understand each other's positions. Mandiant analysts said the hackers have stolen proprietary software from US tech firms and used it to identify new vulnerabilities in networks. This has allowed them to burrow deeper into corporate systems, compromising sensitive data and intellectual property. The breach highlights the growing threat of state-sponsored cyberattacks and the need for companies to invest in robust cybersecurity measures. "This is a wake-up call for businesses to take their cybersecurity seriously," said John Hultquist, director of intelligence analysis at Mandiant. "The attackers are highly skilled and well-resourced – it's only a matter of time before they target more companies." Background on the trade war between the US and China has been escalating since March, when the Trump administration imposed tariffs on $50 billion worth of Chinese exports to the United States. Beijing retaliated with its own tariffs, prompting a cycle of tit-for-tat measures that have left both sides scrambling for leverage. The hacking campaign is seen as part of this larger struggle for economic and technological supremacy. "China's cyberattack capabilities are a key component of its overall national security strategy," said James Lewis, director of the Technology and Public Policy Program at the Center for Strategic and International Studies. As the trade war continues to unfold, companies in both countries are bracing themselves for further attacks. The breach serves as a reminder that cybersecurity is now an integral part of any business's defense strategy. Current Status: The hacking campaign is ongoing, with Mandiant warning that more companies may be targeted in the coming weeks and months. As the trade war continues to escalate, the risk of cyberattacks from state-sponsored actors will only increase. Companies are advised to invest in robust cybersecurity measures, including regular software updates, employee training, and incident response planning. Next Developments: The US government is expected to take a closer look at the hacking campaign and its implications for national security. The Trump administration has already announced plans to bolster cybersecurity defenses against state-sponsored attacks. As the trade war continues, companies will need to stay vigilant and adapt their defense strategies to counter the growing threat of cyberattacks from China. Attributions: Mandiant report CNN article Interview with Kevin Mandia, CEO of Mandiant Interview with John Hultquist, director of intelligence analysis at Mandiant Background research by James Lewis, director of the Technology and Public Policy Program at the Center for Strategic and International Studies *Reporting by Yro.*