APT41 targeting of US trade talks with Beijing reportedly under investigation

The U.S. was reported by The Wall Street Journal to have commenced a probe into Chinese state-backed hacking operation APT41's targeting of the country's trade talks with Beijing in an attack involving a phishing email purportedly from House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party Chair John Moolenaar, R-Mich., according to Reuters.

Multiple U.S. trade groups, government agencies, and law firms have been sent the malicious email seeking feedback on an attached draft bill, which when opened, triggered the deployment of malware that would scour targeted systems for valuable intelligence. Additional details regarding the success of the intrusion remain unclear.

"While we are not commenting on any specific information, the FBI is aware of the situation, and we are working with our partners to identify and pursue those responsible," said the FBI.

However, China has vehemently denied conducting such an attack, while emphasizing its commitment to combat cybercrime.

"We also firmly oppose smearing others without solid evidence," said the Chinese embassy in Washington.