China-linked hackers hit Fiji: US embassy

The US embassy has issued a warning that Chinese-linked hackers have compromised a regional organization operating in Fiji, stating that governments and telecommunications networks in the Pacific region are also under threat. The attackers maintained access to the compromised network for several days between July and August. Fiji is becoming a key telecommunications hub in the Pacific Islands, thanks to the expansion of a network of undersea cables linking the US military base in Guam, Australia, French Polynesia, and the mainland United States, all passing through Fiji's capital, Suva.

Policing and communications minister Ioane Naivalurua has ordered an investigation into the incident and urged governments, organizations, and the private sector to enhance their digital security measures. The Chinese foreign ministry denied any knowledge of the attack but firmly opposes hacking activities and takes action against them.

The Pacific Islands Forum, which includes Fiji, stated that while it was not the targeted organization, cybersecurity is of growing importance in the region due to its link to economic resilience, national sovereignty, regional security, and the well-being of Pacific communities. The US State Department had previously accused a Chinese state agency employee in Fiji of significant corruption, which prompted the government's request for further evidence.

The FBI recently took action against China-sponsored hackers targeting critical infrastructure in the United States, a move that the embassy emphasized as directly relevant to the Pacific region.