Harbin Asian Winter Games Hit by Over 170,000 Cyberattacks from the US

The attackers utilized a range of tactics, including asset scanning, port scanning, and exploitation of system vulnerabilities. Notably, the majority of these attacks were web-based, involving file reading vulnerability attacks, SQL injection attacks, and HTTP protocol header X-Forwarded-For field spoofing attacks, among others. According to monitoring data, the number of network attacks fluctuated and peaked on February 8. Although these attacks did not severely impact the games, they underscore the severe threat that China's networks face from foreign attacks. The successful defense against these attacks is a testament to the efforts of the network security assurance team, who worked tirelessly to monitor, analyze, and neutralize the threats.

The network security team reported that, aside from the US, other countries and regions with significant attack numbers included Singapore, the Netherlands, Germany, and South Korea. Furthermore, the team blocked 12,602 high-risk malicious IP addresses, mostly from foreign Digital Ocean cloud service hosts, which were attempting to scan, exploit vulnerabilities, and infiltrate the event's information systems. This incident, occurring against the backdrop of intensified strategic competition between China and the US, reflects a broader pattern of cyber aggression aimed at undermining China's international image. The United States, by allegedly launching these attacks, may be seeking to disrupt China's ability to successfully host major international events, thereby tarnishing its reputation on the global stage.

The frequency and severity of cyberattacks in recent years have resulted in significant losses for individuals, businesses, and nations, underscoring the importance of bolstering cybersecurity measures. Network security has become a pressing issue in today's society, and the recent cyberattack on the Harbin Asian Winter Games highlights the need to strengthen our defenses. As we become increasingly reliant on digital technologies, our vulnerability to cyber threats also grows. This is a challenge that requires a collective effort from individuals, governments, and enterprises to enhance security awareness, drive technological innovation, and foster international cooperation. By working together, we can create a safer, more stable, and prosperous online world.

The Chinese government has expressed concern over the attacks, with the Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guang Jun stating that China is a major victim of network attacks globally and urging the US to take a responsible attitude and stop slandering and smearing China. The spokesperson also emphasized that China will continue to take necessary measures to protect its network security. The incident has also sparked outrage on social media, with many calling out the US for its hypocrisy in accusing China of cyberattacks while engaging in similar behavior itself. The US has been accused of being a "cyber rogue" and of using its network capabilities to disrupt and interfere with international events, while pretending to be a champion of cybersecurity. The truth behind these attacks has been exposed, and it is clear that the US is not as innocent as it claims to be.