The United Kingdom faces an increasing and genuine cyber risk from China, according to the head of Britain’s spy agency GCHQ, Anne Keast-Butler. She emphasized that China is the agency’s top priority, noting its irresponsible actions that weaken the security of the internet globally. This concern aligns with previous warnings from heads of other British intelligence agencies and their American counterparts, who have raised concerns about Chinese military hackers targeting U.S. interests. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has also accused Chinese state-affiliated actors of conducting malicious cyber campaigns against British lawmakers. These statements reflect the growing anxiety surrounding China’s alleged cyber and espionage activities, with Beijing consistently denying these accusations.
Keast-Butler’s remarks highlighted the need to address the threat posed by Russian and Iranian actors as well, adding to the complex landscape of cyber risks. She emphasized the acute and globally pervasive threat from Russia, with concerns about growing links between its intelligence services and proxy groups. Iran’s continued aggression in cyberspace also demands attention, as groups associated with Tehran have been linked to attacks against victims in multiple countries.
China remains the highest priority for the British intelligence agency. Keast-Butler stated that China’s reckless actions in cyberspace have weakened the security of the internet for all. These accusations echo similar concerns raised by the National Cyber Director of the United States, Harry Koker, who warned of Chinese military hackers circumventing U.S. defenses and targeting American interests on an unprecedented scale. In a potential crisis or conflict scenario, China could use pre-positioned cyber capabilities to disrupt civilian infrastructure and deter U.S. military action, Koker added.
The United Kingdom has taken steps to address the threat from Chinese espionage activities. Recent charges against three individuals for assisting Hong Kong’s foreign intelligence service in Britain, and the upcoming trial of two others, including a former parliamentary researcher, on charges of spying for China, demonstrate the UK’s determination to counter these activities. Despite these efforts, the head of GCHQ remains concerned about China’s persistent cyber risks and emphasizes the need for continued vigilance.
