China Accuses Taiwan of Cyberattacks
China’s national security ministry has denounced the activities of a Taiwan military-backed hacking group, Anonymous 64. According to the ministry, the group has conducted cyberattacks against Chinese targets and promoted anti-propaganda content. The ministry has urged citizens to report any instances of such sabotage.
Taiwan Denies Allegations
Taiwan’s defense ministry has vehemently denied the accusations, claiming that China is the true perpetrator of cyberattacks and military provocations. The ministry cited the presence of Chinese aircraft, vessels, and cyber assaults as evidence of the threat posed by Beijing.
Cyber Warfare Allegations
Since the start of 2023, Anonymous 64 has allegedly attempted to disseminate content critical of China’s political system and policies. The group’s efforts have targeted websites, outdoor screens, and network television stations.
Historical Context
The allegations of cyberattacks come amidst ongoing tensions between China and Taiwan. China maintains its claim to sovereignty over Taiwan and has intensified military and political pressure in recent years. Taiwan, however, rejects Beijing’s sovereignty claims and maintains its self-governance.
Anonymous 64’s Activities
Anonymous 64’s X account, established in June 2023, has posted screenshots of its alleged activities. These include attempts to broadcast videos comparing Chinese President Xi Jinping to an emperor, marking the second anniversary of protests against COVID-19 restrictions, and commemorating the Tiananmen Square demonstrations of 1989.
Affiliation with International Group
Neither the X site nor China’s national security ministry have confirmed whether Anonymous 64 has any connection to the international hacking group Anonymous. Reuters has been unable to independently verify the group’s location or the validity of its alleged hacking attempts.
Chinese Investigation
The national security ministry’s investigation has concluded that many of the websites Anonymous 64 claimed to have hacked were either fake or had minimal traffic. The ministry also claims that images of the group infiltrating university and media websites were digitally altered.
Legal Action
The security ministry has launched an investigation against three members of Taiwan’s cyber warfare wing and has published heavily redacted screenshots from the group’s X account. The ministry has also encouraged citizens to report any suspected cyberattacks or anti-propaganda activities to the authorities.
