This week, the U.S. Department of Justice (DoJ) indicted two Chinese nationals on charges that include the theft of American trade secrets and a recent targeting of COVID-19 research centers. The DoJ claims that the suspects acted sometimes for their own financial gain, and sometimes to benefit the Chinese Ministry of State Security. Their hacking campaign lasted more than ten years, the indictment alleges, targeting industries such as high tech manufacturing, industrial engineering, business software, solar energy, pharmaceuticals, and defense. Recent targets include companies developing COVID-19 vaccines, testing technology, and treatments, the indictment further claims.
