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China's Persistent Cyber Threat Targets US Civilian Infrastructure, Alarms Officials

US lawmakers and security officials have warned that China remains the most persistent cyber threat, specifically targeting American civilian infrastructure like power grids and election systems. Acting CISA Director Madhu Gottumukkala testified that China's strategy involves "pre-positioning" within critical systems for long-term access. The hearing highlighted that advances in AI have accelerated these cyber operations, making attacks faster and harder to detect. Officials stressed that defending interconnected digital systems requires deeper international cooperation, notably with partners like India, especially with major events like the 2028 Olympics increasing potential targets.

Key Points: China Cyber Threat to US Infrastructure, Risks to India

  • China targets civilian over military systems
  • AI accelerates cyber attacks
  • Critical infrastructure is now a national security frontline
  • Major global events like 2026 World Cup increase risk
  • US-India cooperation seen as vital
2 min read

China remains most persistent cyber threat to American civilian infrastructure

US lawmakers warn China is the top cyber threat targeting civilian power grids, elections, and transport, urging deeper cooperation with allies like India.

"pre-positioning inside critical systems - Madhu Gottumukkala"

Washington, Jan 23

US lawmakers and homeland security officials have warned that China remains the most persistent cyber threat to American civilian infrastructure, a challenge that closely mirrors security risks faced by India and other major democracies.

The warning came during a House Homeland Security Committee hearing focused on cybersecurity, transportation security, and emerging technology risks. Members from both parties said Chinese state-backed hackers are increasingly targeting civilian systems rather than military assets.

Officials said the goal is long-term access, not immediate disruption.

Lawmakers cited risks to power grids, telecommunications networks, transportation systems, financial services and election infrastructure. They said cyber intrusions now pose direct threats to public safety and economic stability.

Acting Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency Director Madhu Gottumukkala told the committee that China's cyber strategy is built around "pre-positioning" inside critical systems. He said attackers aim to remain undetected for long periods and exploit vulnerabilities during future crises.

Several lawmakers said advances in artificial intelligence and automation have accelerated cyber operations. They said attackers can now move faster, scale attacks more easily and mask their activity more effectively.

Officials described cyberspace as a contested environment where civilian infrastructure has become a frontline national security issue.

Lawmakers said shared exposure to the same threat actors has increased the strategic importance of cooperation between Washington and New Delhi.

They said cyber defence can no longer be handled by individual nations acting alone. Systems are globally interconnected, and attacks often cross borders within seconds.

Members of Congress stressed the need for deeper coordination with trusted partners on cyber resilience, threat intelligence and infrastructure protection.

The hearing also highlighted the added risks posed by major global events scheduled in the United States. Officials cited the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics and the country's 250th anniversary celebrations.

They said such events increase the incentive for hostile actors to target transportation, communications and public safety systems.

Lawmakers warned that cyberattacks aimed at civilian infrastructure could undermine public trust and disrupt daily life without a single shot being fired.

They said defending digital systems has become as critical as traditional military deterrence.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
The strategy of "pre-positioning" is terrifying. It's not about a loud attack today, but a silent takeover for a future crisis. Our government needs to conduct immediate, thorough audits of all critical systems. Public-private partnership is key here.
R
Rohit P
While the threat is real, I hope this doesn't just become an excuse for more surveillance on ordinary citizens in the name of security. The focus should be on securing infrastructure, not on restricting our digital freedoms. Balance is important.
M
Michael C
Interesting to see the Indian official, Madhu Gottumukkala, giving testimony. It underscores the global nature of this challenge. The interconnectedness means a breach in one country can have ripple effects everywhere. International cooperation isn't optional anymore.
S
Shreya B
AI accelerating these attacks is the scariest part. Our defense systems need to be AI-powered too. We need to skill our youth in cyber security on a war footing. This is the new battlefield, and we cannot afford to be behind. Jai Hind!
V
Vikram M
The point about major events like the World Cup or Olympics being targets is so true. Look at the chaos a simple telecom outage can cause. Imagine that during a massive event. We need stress tests for our systems before our own big events.

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