A sophisticated Chinese hacking campaign has infiltrated more US telecommunications companies than previously known, with Charter Communications and Windstream joining the growing list of compromised networks.
The cyberespionage operation, known as Salt Typhoon, has now breached at least a dozen major telecom providers, including previously disclosed victims AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile, and Lumen Technologies. In a startling revelation that has sent shockwaves through diplomatic circles, high-ranking US officials have uncovered an extensive Chinese espionage operation targeting senior American political figures and telecommunications infrastructure.
According to reports by The Wall Street Journal, the hackers exploited vulnerabilities in common network equipment like Cisco routers and Fortinet devices to deeply embed themselves within these critical systems. The expanded scope of intrusions raises serious concerns about the security of America's communications infrastructure.
The attackers specifically targeted high-profile individuals in government and politics through Verizon's network. While companies like T-Mobile and Lumen report they have removed the immediate threats, cybersecurity experts warn that vulnerabilities may persist.
US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan briefed telecommunications executives last fall about the severity of the situation. The classified briefing revealed that Chinese state-sponsored hackers have developed capabilities to potentially disable major ports, power grids, and other critical infrastructure.
In response to the growing threat, the Federal Communications Commission has proposed new regulations requiring telecom companies to submit annual certifications proving they have implemented cybersecurity risk management plans.
The US Consumer Financial Protection Bureau has already taken defensive action by banning employees from using mobile phones for work-related calls, instead directing them to use secure platforms like Microsoft Teams.
While Chinese officials deny involvement, the recurring breaches highlight major gaps in US telecommunications security that require immediate attention through improved oversight and advanced defense mechanisms.
Charter Communications, Consolidated Communications, and Windstream have not yet commented on the reported breaches.