Let’s kick off the week with a big warning — China-backed hackers have had access to major U.S. critical infrastructure for at least five years, according to an intelligence advisory. The hacking group, known as Volt Typhoon, has exploited vulnerabilities in routers, firewalls, and VPNs to target water, transportation, energy, and communications systems. The advisory warns of the group’s ability to disrupt critical energy and water controls. It highlights concerns about potential cyberattacks in the lead-up to a possible Chinese invasion of Taiwan. This represents a shift from traditional Chinese hacking, as Volt Typhoon focuses on destructive cyberattacks.
And I’m putting this in the security block today. The U.S. will restrict visas for individuals involved in the misuse of commercial spyware, targeting those who facilitate or benefit financially from such misuse. The policy will also apply to spouses and children of those involved. The U.S. aims to address the growing misuse of spyware worldwide, which threatens privacy, human rights, and security. The visa ban is related to a previous executive order restricting U.S. government agencies from using commercial spyware. The U.S. does not have a predetermined list of individuals and will handle cases individually. The policy’s applicability to individuals from the European Union and Israel is uncertain. Several countries, including U.S. allies, have been accused of using spyware against political opponents and journalists. The new visa restriction policy is part of the U.S. administration’s efforts to combat the misuse of commercial spyware and promote accountability.
Five years. Let that sink in. That’s a significant escalation in cyber threats.
And while slow, there are proving to be real-world consequences. By targeting those who facilitate or benefit from the misuse of spyware, the U.S. aims to promote accountability and deter nefarious activities facilitated by such technologies. This policy may strain relations with countries, including some U.S. allies. It shows a willingness to take that on.