New York Subway Estimated to Have Been Hacked in April This Year

[Asia Economy Reporter Naju-seok] It was recently confirmed that the New York subway system was breached by Chinese hackers.

According to the New York Times (NYT) on the 2nd (local time), hackers believed to be linked to the Chinese government infiltrated the New York Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) computer system in April of this year. Although the hackers did not access the train control system at the time, the security vulnerability of the public transportation system was confirmed.

[Image source=Yonhap News]

The MTA reported the hacking incident to judicial and related authorities but did not disclose it publicly. However, this hacking is considered the most serious among hacking attacks in recent years.

Following the NYT report, the MTA officially confirmed the hacking attack in a statement. It explained that out of 18 computer systems at the time, 3 were exposed to risk. The MTA blocked the attack immediately after confirming the hack, and forensic analysis showed that there was no leakage of sensitive information or disruption to train operations.

Meanwhile, the Chinese government denied the related allegations. Wang Wenbin, spokesperson for the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, stated at a regular briefing on the 3rd, "We firmly oppose all forms of cyber terrorism and cyber attacks," adding, "Do not speculate without evidence, and speak with sufficient proof in a professional and responsible manner."