Taiwan says China ramps up cyberattacks and disinformation before elections

Taiwan's intelligence agency has reported that China has intensified its cyberattacks and disinformation campaigns against the island ahead of local elections scheduled for November 28. China asserts its claim to Taiwan as part of its territory and has previously threatened to use force to achieve this. Taiwan, on the other hand, disputes this claim and alleges that China employs cyberattacks, disinformation, and espionage to undermine public trust in its government.

According to a report submitted to parliament, Taiwan experienced an average of 2.6 million cyberattacks daily between January and September 2026, with this frequency increasing since June. The National Security Bureau's report indicates that China's "cyber army" targeted various sectors, including academic and research institutions, telecommunications, and defense supply chains, aiming to disrupt Taiwan's defense operations, hinder international cooperation, and pilfer sensitive technologies.

China's cyberattackers are leveraging artificial intelligence, particularly "AI agents" to identify weaknesses in government websites. Intelligence officials have documented over 2.5 million pieces of disinformation spread by China's ruling Communist Party throughout the nine months, a significant increase from around 1.7 million during the same period in 2025. This surge in disinformation occurred predominantly on platforms like Facebook and Threads.

Analysis suggests that China has employed a range of channels, encompassing technological and human means, to sway Taiwanese voters' opinions and sway election outcomes. The upcoming polls on November 28 will elect officials for city and county governments in Taiwan.