China Denies Hacking U.S. Satellites

  • Share
  • Read Later

The Chinese government has denied U.S. accusations that it was responsible for hacking at least two U.S. satellites on multiple occasions during 2007 and 2008, saying instead that the American committee behind the suggestions had ulterior motives in making them.

Although the U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission admitted that none of the satellite hacks—which had occurred at least four times to at least two environmental satellites during the period—had been traced to China, it said that it believed the country was responsible because “the techniques appear consistent with authoritative Chinese military writings.”

(MORE: Chinese Hackers Targeting U.S. Satellites?)

Chinese Foreign Minister spokesman Hong Lei responded with disdain, saying “This report is untrue and has ulterior motives. It’s not worth a comment.” He continued, explaining that the committee “has always been viewing China with colored lenses,” and adding that China “is also a victim of hacking attacks and will oppose any form of cyber crime, including hacking.”

[via Reuters]

Graeme McMillan is a reporter at TIME. Find him on Twitter at @Graemem or on Facebook at Facebook/Graeme.McMillan. You can also continue the discussion on TIME’s Facebook page and on Twitter at @TIME.