Chinese Hackers Breach U.S. Cellular Networks for 8 Months

In a concerning revelation, it has come to light that a group of Chinese hackers, known as Salt Typhoon, infiltrated U.S. cellular networks, maintaining access for eight months. The New York Times recently reported that FBI investigators suspect these hackers accessed calls and SMS messages, raising serious concerns about the privacy of American communications.

New details reveal the breach targeted not only American telecommunications companies but also high-profile individuals, including government officials and campaign staffers. The Wall Street Journal reports that the hackers’ access was broader than initially disclosed, potentially compromising the communications of thousands of Americans.

The group allegedly focused on individuals tied to diplomatic and high-ranking government roles, as well as those involved in presidential campaigns. According to the WSJ, these hackers—likely linked to Chinese intelligence—may have stolen data from thousands of individuals in contact with these targeted officials.

The breach affected major carriers, including AT&T and Verizon, exposing phone data of countless Americans who use their services. This incident highlights an alarming vulnerability in critical infrastructure and underscores the need for enhanced cybersecurity measures.