China-linked Hackers Step Up Attacks on Taiwan's Chip Industry

Businesses, Investment Analysts Targeted Amid US Curbs on Chip Exports to China

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TAIPEI — Chinese-linked hackers are targeting the Taiwanese semiconductor industry and investment analysts as part of a string of cyberespionage campaigns, researchers said on July 16.

While hacking to steal data and information about the industry is not new, there is an increase in sustained hacking campaigns from several China-aligned hacking groups, researchers with cybersecurity firm Proofpoint said in a new analysis.

"We've seen entities that we hadn't ever seen being targeted in the past being targeted," said Mr. Mark Kelly, a threat researcher focused on Chinese-related threats at Proofpoint.

The previously unreported hacking campaigns were carried out by at least three distinct Chinese-linked groups primarily between March and June, with some activity likely ongoing, Proofpoint said.

They come amid rising restrictions by Washington on exports to China of US-designed chips that are often manufactured in Taiwan.