China managed to hack into one of the computer systems of the British Ministry of Defence. The massive data breach targeted employees’ personal data, UK broadcaster Sky News reported. According to Sky News, the compromised system is not part of the central computer network of the British Ministry of Defence. It is now out of service and an inspection has begun.
According to media reports, the Chinese state is to be accused of two or three attempted hacking attacks on employees of the Ministry of Defense. The cyber attack affected the payroll system of active duty personnel of the Department of Defense and some veterans. Names and bank details were largely exposed.
Conservative British MP and ex-soldier Tobias Ellwood told Sky News that China was likely targeting lower-income workers whose cooperation it could offer money.
Defense Secretary Grant Shapps is expected to make a statement in the House of Commons today and set out a “multi-pronged plan”, according to the BBC, which will include measures to protect staff and soldiers whose data was affected. The Department hopes that staff will not be concerned about their safety and will provide advice and support.
Over the past 72 hours, the British Ministry of Defense has been working to determine the extent of the cyber attack. Sky News reports that the investigation has so far found no evidence that sensitive data was stolen. But the attack may raise questions about whether other countries will want to share their sensitive intelligence with the UK.
Chinese President Xi Jinping is now visiting Europe, meeting French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris on Monday. He is not going to visit the British Isles.
Tags: China hacked system British Ministry Defense Sky News reports
