A U.S. House committee is pressing the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) for details on two major Chinese cyberattacks, "Salt Typhoon" and "Volt Typhoon." Lawmakers say these hacks exposed sensitive data, including Americans’ call logs, and infiltrated critical infrastructure.
House Homeland Security Chair Mark Green, alongside Representatives Andrew Garbarino and Josh Brecheen, sent a letter to DHS Secretary Kristi Noem demanding records on the federal response. They argue that despite security alarms, little is publicly known about the full impact of these cyber threats. The committee is particularly concerned that "Volt Typhoon" remains an active risk.
Salt Typhoon, described as the largest telecommunications hack in U.S. history, allegedly allowed Chinese spies to intercept conversations, including those of prominent politicians. Verizon (NYSE: VZ) and AT&T (NYSE: T) confirmed they were affected but assured in December that their networks are now secure.
Lawmakers criticized the Biden administration for only revealing details about Salt Typhoon after media reports emerged. The committee is seeking a timeline of DHS’s awareness, actions taken, and the damages caused. The requested documents, due by March 31, should outline coordination efforts with federal agencies, industry leaders, and victims.
China has denied involvement in these cyberespionage incidents. DHS and the Chinese Embassy in Washington have yet to comment.
With rising concerns over national security, the U.S. government faces increasing pressure to address cyber vulnerabilities and prevent future threats.