The massive cyberattack, known as Salt Typhoon and allegedly backed by the Chinese government, infiltrated telecommunications and other critical infrastructure in more than 80 countries.

Investigators say the years-long campaign may have stolen data from nearly every American, giving Beijing’s intelligence agencies the ability to track people’s communications and movements worldwide.

The attack’s scale and sophistication mark a new era in China’s cyber capabilities, rivaling those of the U.S. and its allies. Western officials, describing the operation as “unrestrained” and “indiscriminate,” warn that the stolen data could be used against politicians, spies, activists, and ordinary citizens alike.

Via New York Times (gifted article)