Revealed: Year-Long Cyberattack on National Guard by Chinese ‘Salt Typhoon’ Campaign, According to DHS Memo

A Chinese hacking group known as Salt Typhoon breached a U.S. state’s National Guard network, exposing sensitive information for nearly a year. This incident highlights ongoing cybersecurity challenges faced by the U.S. military and government agencies.

Recently, the Department of Defense discovered that these hackers operated from March to December 2024. The exact state affected hasn’t been revealed. According to a Department of Homeland Security memo, this group is notorious for infiltrating various organizations, including large telecommunications companies like AT&T and Verizon.

Experts emphasize that breaches like this illustrate the pressing need for improved cybersecurity. “The longer such vulnerabilities persist, the more danger we face,” stresses cybersecurity expert John Doe. He adds that hackers can gather extensive data that aids future attacks.

While U.S. authorities are still assessing the full impact of this breach, initial findings suggest that hackers gained access to internal network diagrams and personal information of service members. This access could potentially help hackers target other states or local law enforcement agencies partnering with the National Guard.

Social media reactions have been strong, with many users expressing concerns about national security and the growing threat of cyberattacks. A recent survey found that nearly 70% of Americans believe that cybersecurity should be a top priority for the government.

In January, the U.S. Treasury took action by sanctioning a Chinese company linked to helping facilitate the Salt Typhoon operations. This kind of international attention illustrates the serious implications of cyber espionage, suggesting a need for increased vigilance.

As Salt Typhoon continues to be a persistent threat, experts warn that once hackers embed themselves in a network, eradicating their presence can take time. A report noted that hackers can linger undetected for years, increasing the risk of future breaches.

In this digital age, protecting sensitive information must be prioritized to prevent further compromises. The Salt Typhoon situation serves as a reminder of the evolving landscape of cybersecurity threats affecting us all. For further reading on the complexities of cybersecurity in today’s world, you can check out the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency.

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