Chinese suspected of hacking into MoD networks

Published on 06/02/2007 00:08

MINISTRY of Defence computer networks have been repeatedly penetrated by hackers, raising fears that sensitive military information could have been obtained by foreign powers.

The MoD yesterday confirmed its systems have been hacked into at least nine times since 2002. Five of the successful "attacks" took place last year. Computer-security experts say the real number is likely to be even higher, as some hackers are skilful enough to leave no trace of their activities.

The ministry was unable to say where the attacks originated, but Western security officials are increasingly concerned that China is using hackers to target sensitive information.

Sophos, an internet security consultancy, estimates that China accounts for 30 per cent of all "malware" programs designed to infiltrate networks covertly.

Since 2005, the Pentagon and other US defence agencies have faced repeated hacking attempts blamed on the Chinese military, a series of attacks codenamed Titan Rain.

Whitehall counter-espionage officials say that there is also evidence of Chinese state-sponsored hackers targeting British networks in recent years.

Patrick Mercer, the Conservative homeland security spokesman, said the penetration of MoD networks showed the need for greater vigilance against hacking.

"We neglect electronic security at our peril," he said. "This may not be a bomb on a train or a hostage-taking, but it is every bit as much an attack."

In a statement, the MoD said all external access to its systems is constantly monitored: "We focus on those attacks which have penetrated our gateways and have triggered incident-response actions designed to limit any damage and reduce risk of a recurrence."