China Is Winning the Cyberwar
6 days ago
- #China-US Relations
- #Cybersecurity
- #Artificial Intelligence
- Chinese cyberattacks, like 'Salt Typhoon,' have deeply penetrated U.S. telecommunications networks, enabling espionage on American communications.
- China's cyber dominance extends beyond espionage, with malware pre-positioned in U.S. critical infrastructure (energy, water, transport) for potential sabotage.
- Structural differences between China's authoritarian cyberdefense and U.S. democratic approach leave American infrastructure vulnerable to attacks.
- China's 'Great Firewall' not only censors but also defends against cyber threats, giving it a strategic advantage over the U.S.
- U.S. critical infrastructure, managed by private entities with minimal government oversight, lacks uniform cybersecurity standards, making it an easy target.
- China's cyber pre-positioning in dual-use systems (water, power, telecoms) could disrupt civilian life and military operations during crises like a Taiwan conflict.
- The U.S. struggles with deterrence in cyberspace due to inadequate defenses and unclear retaliation capabilities against China's offensive operations.
- AI-powered 'digital twins' of critical infrastructure could help the U.S. simulate attacks, identify vulnerabilities, and improve cyberdefenses proactively.
- The U.S. must enhance offensive cyber-capabilities and clarify redlines to deter China, alongside improving public-private collaboration on cybersecurity.
- Without urgent action, AI advancements could further widen China's cyber advantage, undermining U.S. national security and global democratic resilience.