It's True: Chinese Hackers Likely Stole Your Info — Here's What to Know
Chinese hackers pulled off one of the most ambitious telecom hacks in history, infiltrating networks of at least eight U.S. companies and scooping up data on millions of Americans. Their target? Everything from call records to text messages, with a laser focus on high-profile individuals. Here's how they did it, who got hit, and what happens next.
How did they do it?
These hackers didn't just stumble into the system — they marched right through gaping cybersecurity holes. Using advanced techniques to exploit weak spots in telecom routers, the group nicknamed "Salt Typhoon" by Microsoft® accessed sensitive networks and stayed hidden for months. Their access extended deep into call records, text messages, and even specific audio calls.
Anne Neuberger, Deputy National Security Adviser for Cyber and Emerging Technology at the National Security Council, put it bluntly: "There is a risk of ongoing compromises to communications until U.S. companies address the cybersecurity gaps. The Chinese are likely to maintain their access," according to NBC News.
Who was on the hacker hit list?
The attackers didn't just grab random data; they had a plan. While their initial breach targeted broad swaths of phone users, they narrowed their focus to individuals with influence.
Targets included senior Biden administration officials, campaign staff for Donald Trump and J.D. Vance, and even Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer's office. A White House homeland security adviser and at least one Cabinet secretary were also notified that their data may have been exposed.
Virginia Sen. Mark Warner, Chair of the Senate Intelligence Committee, described the breach as "the worst telecom hack in United States history." According to ABC News, Warner explained, "If they pick you or me to go after and they know our number, they can actually listen to our cellphone conversations. They can see what's on our chats. If you talk Apple® device to Apple device, they're encrypted. But if you're in any kind of group chat, they can get at you."
What's the real damage?
The hackers collected more than just phone numbers and call logs. They accessed systems that telecoms use to partner with law enforcement under court orders, potentially exposing sensitive federal investigations.
Officials fear that the stolen data could allow China to identify individuals under federal scrutiny and derail ongoing cases. This includes information about warrants and monitored individuals.
Warner didn't mince words, warning that "millions of Americans and potentially a lot more than single-digit millions" remain vulnerable, as reported by ABC News.
Why haven't the hackers been kicked out?
Despite federal efforts, these hackers still cling to the telecom networks. Neuberger told NBC News that advanced hacking teams often hide deep within sprawling computer networks, making it hard to fully evict them.
Multiple sources told ABC News that the breach had gone undetected for more than a year, with officials acknowledging that they're still uncovering the full scope of the attack. This isn't over.
What's being done to stop this?
The United States — along with allies in Australia, Canada, and New Zealand — released a cybersecurity guide urging telecom companies to tighten defenses and adopt minimum security standards.
The guide includes specific recommendations to detect and root out Chinese hackers, but implementation may take time. Sen. Warner emphasized the need for broader regulations, saying, "We've already put in minimum standards on things like our energy systems and our financial network. But I think things like telecom and health care, we're going to need minimum standards as well," according to ABC News.
What can you do to stay safe?
While you can't prevent breaches at a corporate level, there are ways to protect yourself:
- Stick to encrypted apps. Use tools like Signal™ for calls and messages.
- Keep devices updated. Install patches to close known vulnerabilities.
- Avoid public Wi-Fi. Steer clear of sensitive activities on unsecured networks.
A Wake-Up Call for US Cybersecurity
This massive espionage operation didn't just expose phone data; it revealed glaring vulnerabilities in U.S. infrastructure. The breach highlights how much is at stake and how far adversaries will go to exploit weak spots.
As the investigation continues, the hope is that telecom companies will act quickly to secure their networks. Until then, millions of Americans remain at risk, and the hackers? They're still out there.
References: Chinese hackers stole large amounts of Americans' phone data from eight telecoms, officials say | Chinese espionage campaign scooped up data on thousands of US mobile phone users, sources say
