Germany Accuses China of 2021 Cyberattack on Federal Agency

Germany has accused China of a cyberattack on its federal cartography agency in 2021 for espionage purposes. Berlin has summoned the Chinese ambassador to file a complaint, emphasizing that such attacks pose a significant threat. The hackers compromised private and company devices, with expectations of increased espionage activities by China.

Germany has formally accused China of orchestrating a 2021 cyberattack on its federal cartography agency for espionage purposes. The German government has summoned Beijing's ambassador to Berlin to file a complaint.

Interior Minister Nancy Faeser urged China to cease such activities, highlighting the severe threat posed by these cyberattacks. The German government attributed the responsibility for the attack to Chinese state actors based on intelligence services' information. The hackers had compromised end devices used by private individuals and companies.

Germany's cartography and geodesy agency (BKG) is vital for several state and private organizations, particularly those related to critical infrastructure. Berlin expects a rise in state-run espionage activities from China, especially following the recent high-profile arrest of a European Parliament aide. In response, Germany has significantly enhanced its protective measures against such threats.

(With inputs from agencies.)