US authorities are investigating potential cyberattacks by China-linked hackers targeting devices and networks used by former President Donald Trump and his running mate, Senator JD Vance, sources confirmed to CBS News.
The Trump-Vance campaign was alerted to possible attempts to access data on their phones as part of a broader cyber intrusion.
Individuals affiliated with the Harris-Walz campaign were also reportedly targeted, although the extent of data compromised remains unclear.
The FBI and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) released a joint statement acknowledging unauthorized access by actors linked to China and confirmed ongoing investigations. They reported that affected companies were immediately notified, received technical assistance, and that intelligence sharing was ramped up to prevent further breaches.
Verizon, a major US telecommunications provider, acknowledged the hack and is cooperating with authorities. “A highly sophisticated nation-state actor has reportedly targeted several US telecommunications providers to gather intelligence,” said Rich Young, a Verizon spokesperson.
The Trump campaign attributed the hack to alleged interference by Democrats but provided no evidence for the claim. US law enforcement is handling the case as a matter of espionage, not campaign interference.
Concerns about foreign meddling in US elections remain high. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan recently emphasized the ongoing risk of foreign influence, while FBI Director Christopher Wray warned earlier this year of China’s intent to disrupt US security.
