China suspected of cyberattack on UK's Ministry of Defence
Sky News has reported a significant data breach at the UK's Ministry of Defence (MoD). The suspected source of this cyberattack is China. The breach targeted a payroll system, exposing the names as well as bank details of service personnel currently in service, and some veterans. Despite the data breach, all salaries will be paid on time this month.
China's alleged motive behind the cyberattack
Tobias Ellwood, a Conservative MP and former soldier, shared with Sky News that China, "was probably looking at the financially vulnerable with a view that they may be coerced in exchange for cash." The government has not officially identified the country behind the attack. However, Sky News believes it to be China. The MoD has also not yet confirmed the source of the attack, or how extensive it was.
Defense Secretary to address MPs on cyberattack
Defense Secretary Grant Shapps is set to address MPs regarding the hack in the House of Commons today. According to BBC reports, he will present a comprehensive plan that includes steps to protect affected servicemen and women. The MoD has been working tirelessly since discovering the hack to understand its scale. The targeted system, that is separate from MoD's main computer network, has been taken offline for investigation and review.
Previous cyberattacks and reactions from the opposition
This cyberattack follows two previous incidents just two months ago, when China's "state-affiliated actors" were accused by the UK government for two "malicious" cyberattack campaigns in Britain. In March 2024, Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden revealed that one such incident, involved an attack on the Electoral Commission in 2021. Labour's Shadow Defense Secretary, John Healey, said there are "so many serious questions for the defense secretary on this, especially from Forces personnel whose details were targeted."
