China’s national security ministry has accused a Taiwan military-backed hacking group, called Anonymous 64, of launching cyberattacks against Chinese targets. In a blog post published on Monday, the ministry claimed that Anonymous 64 has been trying to disrupt Chinese media by uploading content that criticises the country’s political system. The accusations have sparked a heated exchange between China and Taiwan. Both of which deny each other’s claims of cyber interference.
Taiwan Denies Allegations
Taiwan’s defense ministry quickly rejected the allegations. According to Taiwan, China is the one responsible for disturbing the peace with constant cyberattacks and military harassment. Taiwan’s government, which Beijing does not recognize as legitimate, frequently accuses Chinese hackers of trying to spread disinformation.
In response to China’s claims, Taiwan’s defense ministry’s cyber force, known as the Information, Communications and Electronic Force Command, issued a strong statement. They dismissed China’s accusations as false, saying that China’s cyberattacks, along with their military activities, are the real threat to peace. “The Chinese communist military and forces that coordinate with it continue to harass Taiwan through cyberattacks and military pressure,” Taiwan’s defense ministry said.
Who Is Anonymous 64?
China claims that Anonymous 64, a hacking group linked to Taiwan’s cyber warfare division, has been broadcasting content critical of the country since its establishment in June 2023. This includes videos comparing Chinese President Xi Jinping to an emperor and marking key events like protests against China’s strict COVID-19 policies and the 1989 Tiananmen Square protests.
The group has posted screenshots on its social media account, showing efforts to infiltrate Chinese networks. In one of its videos, a member of Anonymous 64 can be seen wearing a Guy Fawkes mask, a symbol often associated with global hacking group Anonymous. However, it is unclear if there is any connection between the two groups.
China’s Investigation
In its blog post, the Chinese national security ministry claimed that many of Anonymous 64’s cyberattack attempts were fabricated. They said that many of the websites the group claimed to have hacked were fake or had very little traffic. The ministry said the group had photoshopped screenshots claiming to show access to Chinese university and media websites.
Despite these claims, China is taking the threat seriously. The ministry stated that it had opened a case against three members of Taiwan’s cyber warfare team, accusing them of being involved in the group’s activities. The Chinese government urged citizens to be vigilant. They encouraged people to report any cyberattacks or “anti-propaganda sabotage” to national security authorities.
Tensions Continue
The cyberattacks are just another point of conflict in the strained relationship between China and Taiwan. China views Taiwan as a breakaway province and has ramped up pressure in recent years. Military activity, economic sanctions, and political isolation are just a few ways China has sought to assert its claim over the island.
Taiwan continues to reject China’s sovereignty claim and is strengthening its defense capabilities. The situation remains tense as both sides engage in accusations over cyber warfare, further complicating an already fragile relationship.
In the digital age, cyberattacks have become a new battleground for these two rivals. The accusations against Anonymous 64 highlight the growing importance of cybersecurity in modern geopolitical conflicts. While China and Taiwan continue to exchange blame, the risk of more serious cyber incidents looms large.
Way Forward
The allegations of cyberattacks are part of a larger struggle between China and Taiwan. While China accuses Taiwan-linked Anonymous 64 of anti-government sabotage. Taiwan denies the accusations and blames China for spreading disinformation. Tensions between the two continue to escalate. The role of cyber warfare will likely play an even larger role in their ongoing dispute.