UK Foreign Office hit by cyber-attack

A cyber-attack on the UK Foreign Office raises concerns about state-sponsored hacking, with experts noting links to campaigns targeting sensitive government information.
Officials confirm the cyber-attack at the UK Foreign Office, but stress quick action and low individual risk while investigations into possible Chinese involvement continue.

The UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office was hacked in October, according to minister Chris Bryant. Officials say there is a low risk to any individual from the breach.

Reports suggest that a Chinese group, Storm 1849, may have been involved, but Bryant cautioned that the perpetrator has not been confirmed. Tens of thousands of visa details could have been targeted, though the exact scope remains unclear.

The attack shares similarities with a 2024 campaign called ArcaneDoor, linked to state-sponsored actors. Cybersecurity experts warn that the incidents may be connected and highlight risks of large-scale data targeting.

Officials have quickly closed the vulnerability and continue to investigate the matter. Bryant emphasised that speculation is unhelpful and said the investigation could take some time to identify the responsible party.

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