Washington, DC – In a recent cyber-espionage incident, Chinese government-linked hackers allegedly targeted the phone communications of former US President Donald Trump and Senator JD Vance, according to sources familiar with the matter cited by CNN. This targeting is part of a larger campaign focused on high-level US figures, aiming to infiltrate the nation’s telecommunications infrastructure.
Hackers Eye High-Level US Officials’ Phone Data
The alleged hacking was part of a broader Chinese cyber-espionage campaign targeting multiple US telecommunications companies. According to CNN, US officials recently notified Trump’s campaign that both he and Vance were among those specifically targeted. Sources confirmed that other senior officials from the Biden administration were also on the list, underscoring the extent of the threat.
In a statement, Trump campaign spokesperson Steven Cheung criticized the Harris campaign, accusing it of “emboldening” foreign actors like China. However, it remains unclear what, if any, sensitive information was accessed by the hackers.
FBI and CISA Respond to Chinese Espionage
In response to the incident, the FBI and US Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) issued a joint statement addressing the unauthorized access to US commercial telecom infrastructure by Chinese-affiliated actors. The agencies have provided technical support to affected companies and are actively investigating the situation to prevent further breaches.
“The US Government is investigating the unauthorized access to commercial telecommunications infrastructure by actors affiliated with the People’s Republic of China,” read the statement. The agencies swiftly informed the targeted companies, shared critical information, and provided technical aid to help mitigate potential security risks.
Ongoing Threat from Chinese Hackers
This intrusion is reportedly part of an extended campaign that has infiltrated several US telecommunications firms over the past few months, including major providers like AT&T, Verizon, and Lumen. While the exact motives remain speculative, it is believed that the hackers are seeking sensitive national security data, potentially including information on wiretap warrants issued by the US Justice Department.
US intelligence agencies have reported ongoing efforts by China, Iran, and Russia to influence and monitor US electoral processes, although China has not actively sought to influence the presidential election. However, covert campaigns have reportedly targeted various congressional and local races across the nation.
China Denies Allegations Amid Ongoing Investigations
The Chinese government has denied these allegations, refuting claims of their involvement in any such cyber-espionage activity. However, US intelligence suggests an increasing push from China to monitor American political developments and secure access to sensitive information.
The New York Times was the first to report on the attack against Trump and Vance, with further insights provided by CNN regarding the hackers’ possible focus on national security information. Investigations into the incident continue, as US agencies work to counter future cyber threats.