Report: China Accused of Hacking Phones of Senior UK Officials for Years
UK security agencies are investigating claims that Chinese state-backed hackers infiltrated the mobile phones of several senior British government officials for years, according to sources familiar with the matter. The alleged breaches, which reportedly targeted ministers, diplomats, and high-ranking civil servants, have raised significant concerns about national security and the vulnerability of sensitive government communications.
According to preliminary intelligence assessments, the suspected Chinese hacking campaign is believed to have accessed messages, emails, contact lists, and confidential discussions related to government operations. Officials say the attackers used sophisticated spyware capable of remaining undetected for long periods, allowing prolonged monitoring of the targets’ activities.
The UK government has not publicly identified the officials affected, but sources say the hacks may have compromised strategic information regarding foreign policy, defense planning, and trade negotiations. Cybersecurity experts warn that such long-term access could allow foreign actors to gain deep insights into political decision-making and anticipate future policy moves.
Downing Street issued a cautious response, stating that the government takes all cyber threats “extremely seriously” and that investigations into “malicious cyber activity” are ongoing. China has denied any involvement, repeating its stance that it does not engage in state-sponsored hacking and accusing critics of “fabricating narratives” to damage bilateral relations.
The alleged operation has intensified calls from MPs for stronger digital security measures across government departments, including stricter device monitoring, reduced use of personal phones for official business, and expanded training on cyber hygiene. Several lawmakers have also urged the government to confront Beijing more directly over hostile cyber activity.
Intelligence officials caution that the full scale of the breach may take months to uncover. For now, security teams are focused on isolating compromised devices, assessing potential damage, and preventing further intrusions. The incident adds to growing tensions between the UK and China, already strained over issues ranging from trade restrictions to concerns about espionage and national security.
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