U.S. officials say that hackers linked to China have compromised IT networks and taken steps to carry out disruptive attacks in the event of a conflict. These hackers gain access to key networks to enable potential disruptions such as manipulating heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning systems in server rooms, or disrupting critical energy and water controls. Recently there was a massive cyberattack on American telecom companies by a China-linked hacker group.

Morgan Adamski, Executive Director of the U.S. Cyber Command, said that Chinese-linked cyber operations focus on gaining an advantage in case of a major conflict with the U.S. As a counter measure, he said the U.S. government has "executed globally synchronized activities, both offensively and defensively minded, that are laser-focused on degrading and disrupting PRC cyber operations worldwide.” The FBI and Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) are providing technical assistance and information to potential targets.

Beijing on its part routinely denies cyberattacks targeting U.S. entities. Read more about this story on our LinkedIn page