White House discusses China-linked telecom hack

The White House has engaged leading United States telecommunications executives in a high-level meeting to address a significant cyber-espionage campaign allegedly linked to China. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan and Deputy Adviser Anne Neuberger hosted the meeting, seeking industry insights and strengthening government-private sector partnerships to counteract future cyber threats.

Earlier this month, US authorities disclosed that hackers, purportedly linked to China, accessed surveillance data meant for law enforcement by breaching multiple telecom companies. Senator Mark Warner described the breach as the ‘worst telecom hack in our nation’s history.’

Though the identities of the companies and executives involved remain undisclosed, the meeting underscores the urgency of cybersecurity improvements amid escalating threats from state-sponsored actors. While China has categorically denied involvement, the incident amplifies concerns over Beijing’s alleged cyber activities targeting critical US infrastructure.

The discussions aim to establish better safeguards against sophisticated attacks, reinforcing collaboration between federal agencies and the telecom sector to bolster national cyber resilience.