US Indicts Chinese Hackers Attacking Korean Games and More

Hacking of Government Networks by Over 100 Global Game and IT Companies, Think Tanks
US Criticizes China for "Ignoring Hackers"

The U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has issued wanted notices for indicted Chinese hackers.
[Image source=EPA Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy New York=Correspondent Baek Jong-min] The U.S. Department of Justice announced on the 16th (local time) that it has indicted five Chinese hackers who carried out hacking against more than 100 companies and institutions worldwide.

The Department of Justice stated in a press release that a total of seven individuals, including these five, have been charged with computer and financial fraud, identity theft, money laundering, and extortion.

They targeted software developers, computer manufacturers, telecommunications companies, social media companies, gaming companies, non-profit organizations, universities, and think tanks in the U.S. and other countries. Hong Kong civil society activists, foreign governments, and politicians were also targets of the hacking.

Among the hackers, three operated at a company called "Chengdu 404" located in Sichuan Province, China, which claims to provide network security services. They conducted ransomware attacks by hacking companies and institutions to collect identity information and take control of systems, then demanded payment. They also engaged in illegal cryptocurrency mining.

Two other hackers with experience working at "Chengdu 404" were caught conspiring with Malaysian businessmen to hack major gaming companies, stealing game chips and reselling them.

South Korea was among the victim countries. Together with Malaysian businessmen, they committed hacking crimes targeting the video game industries in the U.S., France, Japan, Singapore, and South Korea. The Department of Justice did not disclose the affected companies.

Deputy Attorney General Jeffrey Rosen criticized China for turning a blind eye to cyber espionage activities. He pointed out that one hacker boasted about being close to Chinese security agencies and expected protection. In a briefing, Deputy Attorney General Rosen stated, "We understand that Chinese authorities could enforce the law against these individuals, but they have chosen not to."