Chinese Spy Group Uses Malware To Get Remote Access of Cargo Shipping Companies’ Computer Systems

A China-associated cyber espionage group called Mustang Panda has introduced malware to achieve remote access to computer systems belonging to commercial shipping companies based in Greece, Norway, and the Netherlands, reports NBC News.

The new information, received via the Slovakia-based cybersecurity major ESET, comes amid rising warnings from the UK and the US officials regarding a significant cybersecurity risk emanating from China, especially critical infrastructure.

Mustang Panda, accused of espionage against organisations and governments in Asia and Europe, used similar malware tools in earlier spying missions.

The tools permit attackers to access a device and issue a command when gaining entry.

This marks the first instance of a China-linked cyber espionage group emphasising commercial shipping.

Robert Lipovsky, the principal threat intelligence researcher associated with ESET, mentioned that they had not seen this in the past, adding that there was an interest in the sector.

However, per NBC News, it is still not evident if the cyber spying efforts involved the use of USB devices physically placed at the firms or on vessels.

China’s embassy in Washington has denied these accusations.

Spokesman Liu Pengyu mentioned that China is a victim of cyber-attacks and stands up firmly against all kinds of cyber threats and attacks, according to its report.

Reference: NBC News

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Source: Maritime Shipping News