Politics · Singapore Bureau
New Zealand names China as most persistent cyber threat
Wellington's cyber security agency has identified China as the country's most capable state-backed cyber adversary, with foreign actors conducting sustained campaigns against government bodies and critical sectors.
LSN Singapore ·
New Zealand's national cyber security agency has assessed China as the most persistent and sophisticated state-backed cyber threat facing the nation, according to statements released this week. The assessment highlights growing concerns over foreign cyber operations targeting sensitive government agencies and organisations across multiple critical sectors. The threat landscape includes sustained attacks on entities operating in health, education, and information technology, reflecting a broad-based effort to penetrate New Zealand's digital infrastructure. Officials said the targeting of these sectors underscores the strategic importance foreign actors place on accessing sensitive government and institutional systems. The assessment represents an escalation in public acknowledgement of cyber threats, as New Zealand joins other Five Eyes intelligence partners in expressing concern over state-sponsored cyber activities. Authorities indicated they are bolstering defences and coordination with international partners to counter the evolving threat environment. The agency did not specify the methods or scope of recent intrusions, citing operational security considerations.