Senior Taiwanese officials have strongly denied Beijing’s recent accusations that Taiwan-backed hackers are targeting China, describing the claims as “fake news.” On Tuesday, Taiwan’s Defence Minister Wellington Koo asserted that China, not Taiwan, is responsible for global hacking activities.
Beijing’s Accusations
China’s national security ministry alleged on Monday that a Taiwan military-supported hacking group named Anonymous 64 has been conducting cyberattacks on Chinese targets. Beijing even went so far as to name and publicise photos of three Taiwanese individuals it claimed were involved in the group. These accusations mark a rare instance of Beijing accusing Taipei of hacking, as Taiwan usually highlights itself as the victim of Chinese cyberattacks and disinformation campaigns.
Taiwan’s Strong Denial
Speaking at a press conference, Defence Minister Wellington Koo dismissed the allegations, insisting that China is the true perpetrator of widespread cyberattacks. “China is the first country when it comes to daily cyberattacks, targeting Taiwan and countries with similar democratic ideals. They are the real originators,” he said.
Koo added that China’s accusations are baseless and that Taiwan’s military remains committed to defending the country. He assured that the military would not be deterred by China’s accusations or attempts to undermine their efforts.
Taiwan Responds to ‘Fake News’
Taiwan Premier Cho Jung-tai also weighed in, stating that China’s accusations were part of a broader disinformation campaign aimed at destabilising Taiwan. “China is spreading fake news to attack Taiwan,” Cho said, urging a strong response to counter Beijing’s false narratives.
Ongoing Tensions Between Taiwan and China
This incident further highlights the tense relations between Taiwan and China. Beijing has never ruled out the use of force to assert control over Taiwan, which it considers part of its territory. Taiwan, on the other hand, rejects these claims, emphasising that only its citizens have the right to determine the island’s future.
China has shown particular hostility towards Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te, labelling him a “separatist” and dismissing his repeated offers for dialogue.
(With Inputs from Reuters)
