The UK government is set to attribute cyber-attacks targeting personal data of millions of voters to China. The attacks on the Electoral Commission in August 2021 were disclosed last year, revealing that several MPs critical of Beijing were also targeted. Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden will address Parliament on Monday regarding this threat. It is anticipated that other Western nations will express similar concerns.
Following the attacks in August, the Electoral Commission stated that “hostile actors” accessed copies of electoral registers and breached emails and control systems, with no impact on elections or registration status. It is believed that Dowden will indicate a connection to Beijing and outline the UK’s response to this broader threat.
Publicly naming the attackers lays the groundwork for potential legal and political actions, such as sanctions or diplomatic protests. Linking the attackers to China could escalate diplomatic tensions between the two countries.
Former Conservative leader Sir Iain Duncan Smith, former minister Tim Loughton, and SNP’s Stewart McDonald, among others believed to be targeted, will receive security briefings. Loughton emphasized the need for the government to take the “strategic threat” from China seriously.
Concern over Chinese espionage and interference in parliament has been increasing, with accusations of political interference activities and donations on behalf of China. Labour’s shadow Welsh secretary Jo Stevens has called for a new strategy to address state threats.
Energy Minister Andrew Bowie emphasized a pragmatic relationship with Beijing amid reports of Chinese investments. The government is committed to defending democracy, freedom of speech, and individual liberties while reviewing investments to ensure security and freedoms are not compromised.
Historically, tensions between the UK and China have been on the rise due to allegations of cyber-attacks and political interference. The UK government’s response to these threats reflects a growing concern over China’s actions on the international stage.
Overall, the UK’s stance on Chinese cyber threats and interference underscores the importance of safeguarding national security and democratic processes in the face of evolving cyber threats and international challenges.