U.S. charges Chinese hackers for targeting COVID-19 research

A federal grand jury has returned an 11-count indictment against two Chinese hackers for a “sweeping global computer intrusion campaign” that began over 10 years ago and recently targeted companies developing coronavirus vaccines and treatments, the Justice Department announced Tuesday.

Why it matters: It’s believed to be the first time the U.S. government has charged foreign hackers with targeting coronavirus research, according to AP.

• It’s also the first time the Justice Department has brought charges against criminal hackers for activity done for their personal gain and for state-sponsored attacks, Assistant Attorney General for National Security John Demers said at a press conference. Continue reading.