Thwarting cyberattacks from China is DHS's top infrastructure security priority

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has identified countering cyber threats from China as a top priority for safeguarding critical infrastructure until the end of 2025. The DHS memo emphasizes the need for a comprehensive effort to protect infrastructure from external threats, with China being a primary concern. Other key focus areas include addressing risks related to artificial intelligence, supply chain vulnerabilities, climate change impacts, and satellite-based services dependency. DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas highlighted the critical importance of infrastructure for national security, economic security, and public safety. The memo underscores China's significant risk to national security, particularly through cyberattacks, espionage, and other 'gray zone' activities. The FBI has previously warned about Chinese hackers targeting US infrastructure, while DHS has established initiatives like the China Working Group to address these threats. Congressional actions, such as banning TikTok and restricting purchases from Chinese companies, reflect a broader concern about national security risks associated with China. Overall, the US government is intensifying efforts to defend against cyber threats and malign activities originating from China.