UK Government Hacked by Suspected Chinese Group in October Attack

UK investigates cyberattack linked to China, raising diplomatic issues ahead of PM's Beijing visit. Security risks to individuals remain low.

By Content Team

Dec 20, 2025

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The UK government confirmed it's investigating a cyberattack that occurred in October, with a Chinese-affiliated group suspected of being behind the breach. Trade Minister Sir Chris Bryant said the security gap was "closed pretty quickly" and poses "fairly low risk" to individuals.

Hackers accessed Home Office systems operated by the Foreign Office, potentially targeting visa details according to reports. The National Cyber Security Centre is working with government partners to assess the full impact.

The timing creates diplomatic complications ahead of Prime Minister Keir Starmer's planned Beijing visit next year - the first by a UK PM since 2018. China has consistently denied backing cyberattacks against the UK, calling such accusations "malicious slander."

Source: BBC News

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