China’s Attempt to Gain Access to Critical Infrastructure in the U.S. Raises Concerns, NSA Director Warns
The National Security Agency director, Gen. Timothy D. Haugh, issued a stark warning on Wednesday about China’s ongoing efforts to gain access to critical infrastructure in the United States. According to Haugh, Beijing is actively seeking ways to threaten these systems in the event of a conflict, posing a significant risk to national security.
Last year, U.S. officials uncovered an elaborate scheme by China to infiltrate critical infrastructure in Guam and the continental United States. The operation, dubbed Volt Typhoon, utilized sophisticated techniques to breach wastewater systems and communication networks without leaving a trace of detectable malware.
Haugh emphasized that China’s actions are part of a broader strategy to establish access and put critical systems at risk. He highlighted the potential consequences of such access, including the ability to disrupt or shut down systems near military bases, which could sow chaos and impede response time in a crisis.
The NSA’s assistant deputy director for China, David E. Frederick Jr., echoed these concerns, noting that the People’s Liberation Army is actively developing attack capabilities within critical infrastructure. He emphasized the urgency of countering China’s cyber advancements and preventing them from gaining an upper hand in potential conflicts.
General Haugh described the situation as an “unfair fight,” with China operating within the U.S. while the U.S. faces restrictions in targeting Chinese systems. He stressed the need for proactive measures to disrupt Chinese cyber operations and maintain a competitive edge in cyberspace.
As China continues to expand its global dominance through cyber means, General Haugh urged a comprehensive approach to contesting Chinese influence below the threshold of armed conflict. He emphasized the importance of disrupting malicious activities and undermining trust within the adversary’s cyberecosystem.
In light of these developments, the U.S. faces a formidable challenge in countering China’s cyber capabilities and safeguarding critical infrastructure. General Haugh’s warning serves as a reminder of the growing threat posed by China’s cyber activities and the need for continued vigilance in defending against potential attacks.
