Netherlands Warns of Potential Increase in Cyberattacks from China, Prompting Strong Backlash

The Chinese side has pushed back after Dutch intelligence authorities warned of a potential increase in cyberattacks by Chinese hackers.

According to the website of the General Intelligence and Security Service of the Netherlands (AIVD) on the 7th local time, the AIVD and the Military Intelligence and Security Service (MIVD) projected that "the number of cyberattacks by China utilizing vulnerable 'edge devices' will increase significantly over the next few years."

Edge devices refer to virtual private network (VPN) gateways and firewalls that are located at the network perimeter and connected directly to the internet. Intelligence authorities determined that cases of Chinese hackers targeting these devices are on the rise.

Intelligence authorities assessed that Chinese hackers not only possess detailed knowledge of edge devices, but the advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) has also enabled hackers to discover vulnerabilities more rapidly.

On the same day, intelligence authorities issued a "cyber advisory" to help various institutions prepare for such threats, recommending the use of the latest security updates and multi-factor authentication procedures.

The MIVD had previously issued a similar warning in its annual report.

In contrast, the Chinese Embassy in the Netherlands stated through a spokesperson's statement that the report "seriously damages China's image" and is "full of untruthful words and baseless accusations."

"China expresses its strong dissatisfaction and resolute opposition to this," it said.

"China is one of the primary victims of cyberattacks, and has consistently cracked down on and combated various malicious activities in cyberspace in accordance with the law," it added, noting that cybersecurity is a common challenge faced by all countries.

Mentioning international cooperation based on respect, equality, and reciprocity, it further urged, "We urge Dutch authorities to objectively and rationally evaluate China's efforts to combat cyberattacks and to stop baseless accusations under the pretext of cybersecurity."
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.