Government servers at the Foreign Office were breached by hackers, reportedly linked to China, gaining access to sensitive data. Business Minister Sir Chris Bryant acknowledged the breach but refrained from confirming Chinese involvement. The Government has engaged with the Information Commissioner to assess the impact, indicating a low risk to individuals. An investigation has been ongoing since October.
Recent reports from the Sun suggest that the cyber group Storm-1849, associated with China, targeted government servers in October, raising concerns about data theft. Storm-1849 is known for cyber espionage activities. In previous instances, the UK government attributed “malicious” cyber operations to China in 2024, targeting MPs and the Electoral Commission.
In response to inquiries, Sir Chris mentioned ongoing investigations and swift closure of security gaps. While discussions with the Information Commissioner continue, the minister stated a minimal likelihood of individual compromise. Speculation on Chinese involvement remains unconfirmed.
Addressing the prevalence of cyber attacks, the trade minister emphasized their inevitability in modern times. Government facilities are prime targets, necessitating constant vigilance and response strategies. A Government spokesperson reiterated the commitment to investigating cyber incidents and prioritizing system and data security.
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