China-linked hackers impersonated American AI experts and former government officials in an espionage campaign targeting researchers and policy specialists, according to cybersecurity firm Proofpoint and CNN.
The campaign targeted experts working on AI export controls and military applications at US universities, think tanks and law firms. Proofpoint said it found no evidence that the targeted organizations were successfully breached, but warned the activity may be broader.
The activity occurred as artificial intelligence becomes increasingly important to US-China relations. President Donald Trump recently discussed AI with Chinese President Xi Jinping, though the meeting produced no major technology agreement.
Proofpoint identified the hackers as aligned with Chinese government interests. China has denied similar US hacking allegations. Britain’s MI5 has also warned about Chinese access to Western AI research.
Related Tweet:
Chinese hackers impersonated ex-US official to steal emails from AI experts https://t.co/3WbQcxsKOJ
— The Straits Times (@straits_times) October 1, 2026
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