ZeroFox Intelligence Flash Report - Chinese Threat Actors Targeting Philippines over Sea Disputes

Product Serial: F-2024-02-09b

TLP:CLEAR

In this flash report, ZeroFox researchers cover how Chinese threat actors are targeting the Philippines as a part of likely escalated military and cyber activity as tensions rise in the South China Sea.

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Key Findings

China is likely escalating its military and cyber activity against its neighbors to project power in disputed waters.
Philippines defense officials claim to have thwarted attempts from China-backed hackers to break into government websites and email systems. ZeroFox also identified cyber threat actors targeting a Philippines-based shipping company.
Tensions have been rising, with repeated confrontations between Chinese and Philippine vessels in the South China Sea. China is engaged in similar territorial disputes with several of its other neighbors, all of which have established closer ties with the United States in recent years.
A key trade agreement between the United States and Pacific nations that isolates China is due to go into effect in late February 2024.
With an increasing number of its neighbors rejecting China’s claims to the expansive South and East China Sea territories, expect further Chinese efforts to undermine their governments.