The United States has accused a state-sponsored Chinese hacking group, identified as "QTFY," of conducting cyberespionage operations targeting numerous U.S. entities, including federal agencies, hospitals, and critical infrastructure, since at least 2018. An affidavit filed by an FBI agent on Wednesday detailed allegations against the group, which is said to have targeted networks operated by the Department of Energy, the Department of Justice, the Department of Health and Human Services, and the National Institutes of Health.
Beyond federal agencies, the affidavit states that "QTFY" also allegedly targeted networks belonging to hospitals, telecommunications providers, power companies, financial institutions, and defense contractors. The full extent of compromised data and the specific individuals or entities affected remain unclear, as the Department of Justice has not specified if any charges have been filed or arrests made in relation to the alleged hacking activities.
This latest accusation adds to a long-standing record of U.S. allegations concerning Chinese state-backed cyberespionage. In response to the claims, a spokesperson for the Chinese Embassy in Washington, D.C. issued a statement asserting that China is a "firm defender" of cybersecurity.