Cyberattack Targets Smartphones of U.S. Professionals in Government, Politics, Tech, and Journalism

Washington, June 8, 2025 — Cybersecurity experts have uncovered a highly unusual pattern of software crashes affecting a select group of smartphones belonging to individuals in government, politics, technology, and journalism, raising alarms about a potential sophisticated cyberattack. The crashes, which began in late 2024 and continued into 2025, are believed to be the result of a covert operation that allowed hackers to infiltrate devices without any user interaction, according to investigators at the cybersecurity firm iVerify.

The targeted nature of the attack, which impacted only a small number of devices, suggests a deliberate focus on high-profile professionals in sectors critical to U.S. interests. iVerify’s analysis revealed that all victims shared a common trait: their work was of significant interest to China’s government, and many had previously been targeted by Chinese-linked hackers. While the attackers left no direct evidence of their identity, the pattern aligns with tactics associated with groups linked to China’s military and intelligence services, national security and tech experts told The Associated Press.

“This is a wake-up call about the vulnerabilities in our mobile ecosystem,” said Snehal Antani, former chief technology officer for the Pentagon’s Joint Special Operations Command. “While smartphones themselves have robust security, the apps and connected devices we use often lack the same protections or regular updates, creating entry points for hackers.”

The attack’s method is particularly concerning because it required no user action, such as clicking a malicious link, to compromise devices. This “zero-click” exploit could have allowed hackers to access sensitive data, including contacts, communications, and policy discussions. In one reported case, someone impersonating Susie Wiles, President Donald Trump’s chief of staff, used contacts from her personal cellphone to send messages and calls to governors, senators, and business leaders, The Wall Street Journal reported. The messages did not originate from Wiles’ number, indicating a breach of her device’s contact list.

U.S. intelligence officials have long warned that China poses a persistent threat to economic and political interests through cyberespionage, leveraging tools like artificial intelligence, online propaganda, and surveillance. Mobile devices, which can store sensitive government information and passwords, are especially valuable targets. “The phones of top officials are a treasure trove for intelligence gathering,” said Rep. John Moolenaar, R-Mich., chairman of the House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party. Moolenaar has pushed for greater scrutiny of Chinese telecom firms operating in the U.S., citing concerns about their potential to facilitate cyberattacks.

The broader context of this attack highlights ongoing vulnerabilities in U.S. cyberdefenses. Foreign hackers have increasingly exploited smartphones and connected devices as weak links, burrowing into telecommunication networks to gain access to sensitive systems. The U.S. and allies like Germany have banned or phased out Chinese telecom companies from their networks due to security risks, but these firms still maintain a global footprint that could be leveraged for espionage, experts warn.

In response to growing concerns about device security, federal officials launched a “cyber trust mark” program in 2025 to certify connected devices that meet stringent security standards. However, experts caution that consumers and officials must remain vigilant. “Every fitness tracker, smart appliance, or app is a potential foothold for hackers,” Antani noted.

U.S. authorities are investigating the scope of the attack, with particular focus on whether Chinese state-owned firms played a role in infiltrating critical infrastructure. In December 2024, officials warned of a sprawling Chinese hacking campaign targeting the texts and phone calls of Americans, including then-candidate Donald Trump and his running mate, JD Vance. Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi, D-Ill., a senior member of the House Intelligence Committee, confirmed that hackers were able to listen to calls and read messages in real time. China has denied these allegations, with Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian accusing the U.S. of conducting its own cyberoperations.

As the investigation continues, cybersecurity experts are urging professionals in sensitive fields to adopt stricter security measures, such as using encrypted communication apps and regularly updating devices. The incident underscores the escalating cyber threats facing the U.S. and the urgent need for robust defenses in an increasingly connected world.

17GEN4.com

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