China pre-positioning in U.S. networks for a potential conflict: Canadian agency – National [Video]

Beijing-linked hackers are “very likely” finding their way into U.S. critical infrastructure networks to “pre-position” for a potential conflict with America, according to Canada’s cyber intelligence agency.

The Communications Security Establishment (CSE) said the People’s Republic of China (PRC) is likely integrating cyber operations into its military planning “to gain an advantage … in the event of a major crisis or conflict with the U.S.” The “pre-positioning” refers to gaining access to networks in order to exploit them if the need arises.

Because of Canada’s connection to critical infrastructure networks in the U.S. — such as the transportation, energy and telecommunications sectors — CSE warned in their annual cyber threat report that the alleged compromises are a threat to Canada, too.

“According to U.S. officials, the PRC’s operation is designed to slow the U.S. military’s response and to sow societal panic” in the event of conflict, the report suggested.

“While the focus of future PRC cyber …