security 12 May 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
China Linked to Extensive Cyber Operations Targeting Asia and Expatriates
Cybersecurity firm Trend Micro has uncovered a sophisticated cyber-espionage campaign believed to be orchestrated by China, targeting governments and dissidents across Asia. The operations, active since at least 2019, employ advanced techniques to infiltrate networks and exfiltrate sensitive data. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/china-s-cyber-operations-hit-asian-governments-and-dissidents-abroad-5457344
A previously unknown cyber-espionage campaign, attributed to China, has been targeting governments and expatriate communities across Asia, according to a May 1 disclosure by cybersecurity researchers at Trend Micro. The sophisticated operations have been active since at least 2019, focusing on intelligence gathering.
The campaign, dubbed “Operation Éclair,” utilized custom malware and advanced techniques to gain unauthorized access to compromised systems. Researchers noted that the attackers specifically aimed to steal sensitive data, likely for geopolitical and economic advantage.
While China has not officially responded to the findings, the pattern of attacks aligns with previous accusations of state-sponsored cyber activities originating from the country. The operations highlight the persistent threat of cyber-espionage targeting regional stability and individuals critical of certain regimes.
Trend Micro’s report details the intricate methods employed by the attackers, including the exploitation of known vulnerabilities and the use of novel evasion tactics. The scope of the affected entities suggests a broad and persistent effort to gather intelligence from various Asian nations and individuals living abroad.