Have you heard about the latest cyber drama? 😲 China's cybersecurity agencies are calling out the U.S., saying they've cooked up a phantom hacker group called \"Volt Typhoon\" to hype up cyber threats and extend their own surveillance powers!
According to China's National Computer Virus Emergency Response Center and other institutions, the U.S. has been orchestrating a disinformation campaign since early 2023. They claim that U.S. intelligence agencies like the NSA and FBI are behind this plot, aiming to renew and expand Section 702 of the U.S. Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) — basically giving them more leeway to spy on others. 🕵️♂️
The Plot Thickens 🎬
The Chinese report breaks down this alleged operation into three key phases:
- Preparation Stage (Jan 2023 – May 2023): U.S. officials pushed for the extension of Section 702 in Congress while allegedly fabricating a cyberattack at a military base in Guam. They roped in tech giants like Microsoft to back their story.
- Implementation Phase (June 2023 – Jan 2024): The so-called \"Volt Typhoon\" group was used to stir up fear, pressing Congress to temporarily extend their surveillance powers. They also collaborated with anti-China lawmakers to plot against Chinese internet companies.
- Consolidation Phase (Feb 2024 – April 2024): The campaign supposedly succeeded, with Congress passing legislation for the long-term extension of Section 702, aiming to tighten the grip on cyber operations and keep competitors in check.
Cyber Attacks Galore 💥
The report also claims that since May 2023, U.S.-linked hacker groups have launched over 45 million cyberattacks against Chinese entities! 😱 Targets ranged from government agencies to universities and big businesses. Tools found in these attacks allegedly point back to U.S. intelligence agencies.
Calling Out the U.S. 📢
China is not holding back. They're urging U.S. politicians to focus on their own backyard instead of using China as a \"scapegoat.\" The report warns that the U.S. might continue fabricating cyber threats to justify more surveillance and bigger budgets, putting a heavier burden on American taxpayers. 💸
Moreover, they see Section 702 as a gateway for the U.S. to build a \"hacker empire,\" posing threats to global sovereignty and personal privacy. China is calling on the world to stand up against these actions and protect their rights. ✊
The Takeaway 🧐
This digital showdown highlights the growing tensions in cyberspace between major powers. Whether these claims hold water or not, it's clear that cybersecurity is becoming a battleground for international relations. Stay tuned, folks! 🔥
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
