Salt Typhoon Hacks Ninth US Telecom Firm

A Chinese-linked hacking campaign, dubbed 'Salt Typhoon,' has compromised nine U.S. telecommunications firms, allowing Beijing access to private communications of numerous Americans, particularly in the Washington-Virginia area. The Biden administration initially reported eight companies affected, but a ninth has been confirmed, highlighting significant cybersecurity vulnerabilities. Deputy National Security Advisor Anne Neuberger emphasized the hackers' goal was likely espionage, targeting government officials and political figures. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is considering new cybersecurity rules for telecom companies to prevent such breaches. The sophisticated hacking operation has alarmed national security officials, underlining the inadequacy of voluntary cybersecurity practices against threats from nations like China, Russia, and Iran. The FBI has not disclosed victim identities but believes the targeted individuals are mainly involved in government or political activities.