Computer hacker silhouette. Green binary code background. (Photo/gettyimages)
(EPICSTORIAN) – Chinese state-sponsored hackers have infiltrated the Philippine government, stealing sensitive military and executive branch data in a years-long cyber-espionage campaign, Bloomberg said.
This revelation, confirmed by three individuals with direct knowledge of the matter, underscores escalating cyber threats in Southeast Asia.
The breach, initially discovered by cybersecurity experts in 2023, compromised critical systems within the executive branch, including access to highly sensitive military intelligence.
According to sources, the same breach was flagged again in August 2024, suggesting a failure to adequately address the initial vulnerability.
In May 2024, the Philippine president’s office requested detailed information about the hack from one of the cybersecurity experts. Emails reviewed by Bloomberg News indicate concerns over the scale and implications of the intrusion, though officials remain tight-lipped on the matter.
Speaking anonymously, a cybersecurity analyst familiar with the breach stated, “This cyber-attack highlights the sophistication of Chinese state-sponsored operations. The Philippines must bolster its defenses to protect national security.”
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The Chinese government has faced repeated accusations of employing cyber-espionage tactics against countries in the Asia-Pacific region. In response to similar allegations in the past, Beijing has consistently denied involvement, claiming adherence to international norms in cyberspace.
The Philippines has been a strategic focal point in Southeast Asia, particularly given its territorial disputes with China in the South China Sea. Analysts suggest that the stolen data could give China a significant intelligence advantage in regional negotiations and military strategy.
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This breach highlights a pressing need for the Philippines to enhance its cybersecurity infrastructure and collaboration with international allies. As the digital age evolves, the stakes in cyber warfare are higher than ever.
