Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Chinese Cyber Espionage Targets U.S. Firms Amid Tensions

9/25/2025

22 3 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Mandiant reports a surge in Chinese cyber espionage targeting U.S. software developers and law firms amid tensions.
The FBI is investigating intrusions undetected for over a year, SolarWinds-like in severity; Beijing denies hacking, saying the U.S. conducts cyberattacks against China.
RedNovember, tied to Chinese state-sponsored activity, targets global organizations including U.S. defense contractors, using Pantegana and Cobalt Strike.

History

Historical Context

In 2015, the U.S. and China agreed to limit cyber espionage after the Office of Personnel Management breach compromised data of 22 million individuals. Despite this, a Mandiant report noted a 50% rise in Chinese cyberattacks on U.S. entities, reflecting ongoing tensions as Beijing denies involvement while accusing the U.S. of similar actions, potentially straining diplomatic relations further.

1 of 2

Story summary

Mandiant reports a surge in Chinese cyber espionage targeting U.S. software developers and law firms amid tensions.
The FBI is investigating intrusions undetected for over a year, SolarWinds-like in severity; Beijing denies hacking, saying the U.S. conducts cyberattacks against China.
RedNovember, tied to Chinese state-sponsored activity, targets global organizations including U.S. defense contractors, using Pantegana and Cobalt Strike.

1 / 2