America’s investigative agency FBI has taken major action against hackers linked to China. The FBI has seized two such tools with the help of which hackers were infiltrating the computer networks of many countries including the US. The names of these tools are MicroScan and FishHub. It was being used to target power companies, airports, universities and companies providing essential services. The FBI and the US Justice Department said Thursday that the tools are linked to a hacking group called FlexTyphoon. American officials claim the group has ties to the Chinese government.

1. What is the Microscan tool and how does it work?

Microscan is a tool that hackers use to examine computer networks. With its help, they find vulnerabilities in the network and select systems to attack. An American power company and a Japan-Poland airport were targeted with the tool. Taiwanese universities, companies related to essential services and an international non-governmental organization were also targeted.

2. What is the FishHub tool and how does it work?

PhishHub was used for phishing, that is, to trick people into gaining access to their computer networks. Hackers used this tool to trap people online. According to the FBI, this allowed hackers to remotely enter other people’s computer networks. It means that hackers can reach the targeted network even if they are sitting in another country.

Who was behind these tools?

According to the FBI, the tools were being operated by a Chinese cybersecurity company called Integrity Technology Group. This company has an agreement with the Chinese government. The FBI believes the company is behind the Flex Typhoon hacking group.

Also in September 2024, the FBI shut down the group’s large hacking network. The hackers then installed malicious software in more than 2 lakh cameras, video recorders and Internet routers in homes and offices. These devices were used in cyber crimes like stealing personal and sensitive information of people.

What will the FBI do now?

FBI officer Jason Bilanosky described this hacking campaign as dangerous. He said the agency is targeting hackers’ networks, money and equipment. The FBI has rendered both devices useless. Officer Brett Lally said that the Chinese company will now be monitored to see if it sets up its own hacking network again.