Australian Agency Attributes Cyber Crimes to China-Backed Hackers

China-Backed Hackers Accused of Breaching Australian Networks

In a significant revelation, Australia's government cybersecurity agency has accused a China-backed hacker group of infiltrating two unnamed Australian networks, stealing sensitive passwords and usernames in 2022. The cyber attacks were attributed to the group known as APT40, which reportedly conducts operations for China's Ministry of State Security, the main body responsible for overseeing the nation's foreign intelligence activities.

Global Cybersecurity Agencies Raise Alarm

The Australian Cyber Security Centre's joint report was compiled in collaboration with lead cybersecurity agencies from several major allies, including the United States, Britain, Canada, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, and Germany. The report indicates that APT40's activities and techniques are consistent with those typically associated with Advanced Persistent Threat (APT) actors.

The Chinese embassy in Australia has not issued a response to these allegations, remaining silent amid these serious accusations. This revelation aligns with previous allegations made by U.S. and British officials earlier in the year, where they accused Beijing of a vast cyberespionage campaign. This campaign allegedly targeted millions, encompassing lawmakers, academics, journalists, and even defense contractors. In those instances, another group, APT31, was held responsible for the network intrusions.

China's Denial and Ongoing Cyber Threats

China has consistently denied these hacking allegations, branding them as 'political manoeuvring' by the United States and Britain. Despite these denials, the threat of state-backed cyber groups remains a significant concern. These groups, referred to as APTs, are known for engaging in various malicious cyber activities, often with state support.

In a related incidence, New Zealand disclosed in March that APT40 had targeted its parliamentary services and parliamentary counsel office in 2021, gaining access to crucial information. This pattern of attacks demonstrates the wide-reaching implications and the international nature of the threat.

Australia's Commitment to Cyber Defense

Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles emphasized the government's resolve to protect its organizations and individuals from cyber threats. In a statement to the media, Marles highlighted that Australia is, for the first time, leading efforts in cyber attribution to bolster its defenses against such intrusions. This initiative underscores the country's proactive stance in safeguarding its digital infrastructure.

Rebuilding Australia-China Relations

This report surfaces at a time when Australia and China are cautiously rebuilding their diplomatic ties following a period of tension. Relations between the two nations took a significant hit in 2020 after Australia called for an independent investigation into the origins of COVID-19. In retaliation, Beijing imposed tariffs on various Australian commodities, most of which have only recently been lifted.

The evolving dynamics between Australia and China continue to be closely monitored, especially in light of these recent cyber-related revelations.