Inquiry Ongoing into October Cyber Attack on UK Government, Suspected Chinese-affiliated Group
An inquiry is underway into the cyber attack on UK government systems that occurred in October, with cybersecurity officials currently assisting in the investigation. It is suspected that a Chinese-affiliated group may be behind the incident, although the government has not publicly named any suspects. The attack affected Home Office systems that are managed by the Foreign Office.
The National Cyber Security Centre is coordinating efforts with government partners to assess the full impact of the breach. Authorities have indicated that the security vulnerability was addressed quickly and that the risk to individuals affected is considered low. However, ministers have stated they are unable to confirm whether the attack was conducted by Chinese operatives or the Chinese state itself.
The Sun reported that visa details might have been targeted during the attack, and the incident has been referred to the Information Commissioner's Office for further review. UK intelligence agencies have issued warnings about increasing Chinese cyber-espionage activities, prompting GCHQ to boost resources aimed at countering threats originating from China.
Any confirmation of involvement by the Chinese state could complicate diplomatic relations between the UK and China, especially with the forthcoming visit to Beijing planned by Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer. Labour has expressed support for engagement with China but continues to emphasize the importance of national security.
China has firmly denied any involvement in the cyber attack, with a spokesperson for the Chinese embassy describing such allegations as fabricated. Analysts have also noted that government departments often rely on older IT systems and have recommended strengthening digital defenses to prevent future breaches.
