US officials are urging citizens to use encrypted apps, such as Signal and WhatsApp, for calls and messages, aiming to reduce the risk of sensitive information leaking to foreign powers.
This recommendation came in response to a large-scale cyberattack on the US telecommunications network, attributed to the Chinese hacker group Salt Typhoon, according to NBC News.
See also: White House: Salt Typhoon breached telecommunications companies in dozens of countries
The attack hit major companies including AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile and Lumen Technologies, exposing sensitive data such as call logs and live chats. Among those targeted were phone numbers linked to the campaigns of Donald Trump and Kamala Harris.
Jeff Greene, executive director of cybersecurity at CISA, said the scale of the attack makes it impossible to completely eliminate the malware. He stressed the importance of encrypted applications as a necessary measure to protect data. Although encryption makes it difficult for hackers to access, the FBI has previously expressed concerns about this technology, calling for the ability to decrypt data when required by law. However, leading technology companies, such as Apple, oppose such practices, arguing that they undermine user security.
Read more: GSMA: End-to-end encryption plans for RCS messaging
The 2015 FBI-Apple dispute over an attempt to decrypt a mass shooter’s iPhone highlights the challenges that arise between cybersecurity and privacy. Although the FBI ultimately gained access to the device without Apple’s involvement, the case highlighted the delicate balance between protecting citizens’ security and protecting their personal data.
Source: cybersecuritynews
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