Kathmandu— The United States government has formally accused Chinese hackers, described as “state-backed,” of infiltrating networks belonging to NASA, the Federal Reserve, and numerous other sensitive entities including government departments, hospitals, and critical infrastructure providers. The allegations surfaced weeks before a scheduled visit by Chinese President Xi Jinping to Washington for talks with President Donald Trump, raising tensions over cybersecurity issues. US authorities announced Wednesday they had seized internet domains linked to hacking platforms allegedly operated by a group known as QTFY, claiming the operation targeted a wide range of organizations and was connected to China’s Ministry of State Security and People’s Liberation Army.

Allegations Detail Broad Scope of Hacking

The Justice Department and FBI allege that the hacking campaign extended beyond federal agencies to include hospitals, telecommunications providers, power companies, financial institutions, and defense contractors. While officials have not disclosed specific details regarding stolen information or damage caused, they describe the operation as a state-sponsored effort designed to compromise sensitive data across multiple sectors. The seized internet domains were reportedly used by QTFY, which authorities claim provides hacking services to Chinese government entities.

China Denies Involvement

Beijing has vehemently rejected the US accusations, with the Chinese Embassy in Washington stating that China “opposes and combats all forms of cyberattacks.” The embassy urged the United States to cease what it called the use of cybersecurity issues to discredit China. This denial mirrors previous responses from Beijing regarding similar allegations, including claims made by President Trump last month concerning alleged interference in US elections.

History of Mutual Accusations

This latest exchange occurs within a pattern of reciprocal accusations of cyber espionage between the two nations. Just over a month ago, President Trump accused China of illicitly acquiring 220 million American voter files during the 2020 election cycle, an allegation dismissed by Beijing as “groundless” and “entirely fabricated.” The White House released documents showing Chinese interest in publicly available voter information, leading to skepticism about the extent of any actual compromise. President Trump himself acknowledged conducting extensive espionage against China, stating after a meeting with Xi Jinping in May that, “We spy like hell on them too.”

China has also accused the US of cyberattacks, claiming last October that the National Security Agency (NSA) conducted a years-long attack on China’s National Time Service Center, which supports critical infrastructure. The NSA neither confirmed nor denied this allegation.

Upcoming Summit Amidst Tensions

The timing of these accusations is particularly sensitive as President Xi Jinping is expected to visit the US on September 24. President Trump has indicated plans to host Xi following their May talks in Beijing, with both sides seeking to manage disputes over trade, technology, and cybersecurity. Washington also intends to discuss sanctions threats against nations continuing trade with Iran.

The accusations are likely to further complicate discussions between the two leaders during the upcoming summit, as they attempt to navigate a range of contentious issues.

(With inputs from RT)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.