FBI Director Christopher Wray highlights the threat posed by China’s hackers
In a testimony before lawmakers, FBI Director Christopher Wray emphasized the urgent need to address the ongoing cyber threat posed by Chinese hackers. Wray warned that these hackers are actively targeting critical infrastructure such as water treatment plants, the electrical grid, oil and gas pipelines, and transportation systems, putting every American at risk.
Preparing for Havoc and Real-World Harm
Wray stated that China’s hackers are positioning themselves on American infrastructure, with the intention of causing havoc and inflicting real-world harm on American citizens and communities. He emphasized the need for immediate attention to this issue, as China could decide to strike at any moment.
Attacks on Economic Security and Data Theft
Highlighting the extent of the threat, Wray revealed that Chinese hackers are actively attacking the country’s economic security. They engage in wholesale theft of innovation, personal data, and corporate data. This relentless assault not only impacts security and the economy but also invades the freedoms of American citizens.
A Stark Reality: Outnumbered and Outmatched
This is not the first time Wray has spoken about the severity of the situation. In April of last year, he testified that FBI agents are outnumbered by Chinese hackers at a ratio of at least 50 to 1. Beijing’s hacking program surpasses that of any other major nation, and they have stolen more personal and corporate data from the U.S. than any other country.
Wray’s testimony shed light on the immense challenges faced by the FBI in combating China’s cyber threat. He emphasized that even if every FBI cyber agent and intel analyst focused solely on the China threat, the numbers would still be overwhelmingly against them.
It is crucial for the United States to confront this growing danger with urgency and develop robust defenses to protect critical infrastructure and national security.
Contributors: Fox News’ David Spunt and Brooke Singman