China reacts to UK cyber sanctions — RT World News

The Chinese government said on Tuesday that British allegations regarding the alleged hacking of the British Electoral Commission are false and baseless, in response to the announcement of sanctions on two of its citizens and a company in Wuhan.

London announced sanctions against Zhao Guangzong and Ni Gaobin, as well as Wuhan Xiaoruizhi Science and Technology Co., Ltd., on Monday. According to the British government, they are linked to Advanced Persistent Threat Group 31 (APT31), a supposed state-affiliated hacking group blamed for two cyberattacks on the British vote.

“The UK’s baseless hype of so-called ‘Chinese cyber attacks’ and announcement of sanctions is outright political manipulation and malicious slander.” The Chinese embassy in London said. “We have no interest or need to interfere in the internal affairs of the United Kingdom.”

The UK embassy demanded “Immediately stop spreading false information.” About China.

British evidence provided to Beijing about APT31 was “Insufficient,” While the “The relevant conclusions lack professionalism.” Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian told reporters on Tuesday, adding that China “We will take the necessary measures to protect our legitimate rights and interests.”

British Foreign Secretary David Cameron announced the imposition of sanctions on Monday evening, accusing China of doing so “Attacks on our democracy” He promised such actions “It will not be tolerated.”

London alleged that APT31 was behind cyber attacks on the UK Electoral Commission between August 2021 and October 2022, which accessed voter databases as well as sensitive voters' emails. “Control systems” Officials participating in six by-elections.

The Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman accused the United States of working on this “Aggregating and spreading all kinds of disinformation about the threats posed by so-called ‘Chinese hackers’.” Using its allies from the “Five Eyes” network – Australia, Canada, New Zealand and the United Kingdom.

New Zealand also claimed to have been targeted by a different group of Chinese hackers on Monday, while the US Department of Justice announced criminal charges against seven Chinese nationals – including the two individuals mentioned by the UK. The group allegedly attempted to hack British and American citizens via… “Malicious emails” Over 14 years.