FBI seizes 13 websites it says China used to target US workers
AP News • • world
Key Points:
- The FBI has seized 13 fake websites that were part of a Chinese operation targeting American workers with security clearances to obtain classified or sensitive government information.
- These websites posed as consulting companies advertising bogus job openings to lure current and former U.S. government employees into sharing non-public information.
- The fake sites used fraudulent identities and AI-generated photos to appear legitimate, and payments for information were made through cryptocurrency and online systems to conceal the operators' identities.
- The operation was uncovered partly through reports from individuals who noticed suspicious interactions and unusual payment methods, prompting FBI investigations.
- The Chinese embassy denied the allegations, calling them fabricated and malicious slander, while the FBI continues to seek public help in identifying similar websites.