British Companies Hacked by Foreign Spies
During a Parliamentary Inquiry, the Centre for the Protection of National Infrastructure (CPNI) said that British companies are being targeted by foreign intelligence agencies, particularly from Russia and China. According to an article in The Telegraph, government sanctioned hackers in Russia and China account for a significant percentage of hacking attempts, while terrorists are growing their capabilities.
According to CPNI, the hackers are predominately looking to steal defense, government and technology information. A number of large companies in the UK have already been the victims of successful attacks. The GCHQ is working to deal with the problem but its effectiveness remains constrained due to difficulties in building up staff.
”The potential threat posed to the UK Government, critical national infrastructure and commercial companies from electronic attack is a matter for concern,” the committee said. ”We have heard from our American and Canadian counterparts that they treat this threat very seriously, and we recommend that the UK accord it a similar priority and resources.”
GCHQ is working to remedy the problem but is experiencing similar difficulties as the U.S. and Australian governments.
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