The Minister of National Security of China, Chen Isin, has acknowledged the digital risks constantly faced by his country. In an article released recently, he highlighted network security violations as the most realistic source of threats to the Chinese Internet segment, mainly due to hacker attacks and the spread of fake news.
The article was published in the journal “China Cyberspace,” which is the official publication of the PRC Cyberspace Office (English Cyberspace Administration of China – CAC). This publication is one of the largest in its field and has even featured an article written by Elon Musk in the past.
Chen emphasizes that even the smallest incident in cyberspace can initiate an information storm that quickly evolves into a societal tornado. The article also draws attention to the dangers of leaks and the dissemination of materials related to terrorism.
Furthermore, attacks on networks that support financial, energy, communication, and transportation systems can lead to catastrophic consequences, ranging from power supply problems to complete economic collapse.
However, Chen believes that the most significant threat lies in heightened competition among major powers. He accuses opponents of forming technological alliances, such as the Clean Network and the “Chip Alliance,” ostensibly for the purpose of cyber protection. According to Chen, these initiatives are motivated solely by the desire to attain a leading position in the technological sphere and establish a monopoly.
The Minister also expresses concerns about China’s dependence on key advancements controlled by other nations, especially in the fields of microcircuits, fundamental protocols, advanced AI, and communication equipment.
Chen shares worries regarding future cybersecurity, pointing out that quantum computing will soon be capable of breaking any form of protection, and AI will be able to generate political rumors and fake information.
In the past week, Chinese government bodies and the scientific community have intensified their focus on the development of quantum computing, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity. President Xi Jinping has also urged for an acceleration in the country’s innovative development.