US authorities are urging citizens to switch to encrypted messaging apps amid increasing cyber threats from Chinese hackers. The warnings stem from cyber threats by Chinese-associated hackers, Salt Typhoon. This is one the biggest data breaches ever. Heightened Recommendations from US Authorities The FBI and CISA have issued warning advisories urging US citizens to adopt encrypted messaging apps to protect themselves against cyber threats linked to Chinese hackers, known as Salt Typhoon. The advisories come following a series of cyberattacks targeting US telecommunications networks, exploiting vulnerabilities inherent in non-encrypted systems. In response, authorities are recommending fully encrypted messaging apps such as Signal and WhatsApp, which prevent unauthorized interceptions of private conversations. These alarming advisories follow reports of Chinese hackers accessing metadata and, in some cases, the actual audio and text data from US communication systems. State-sponsored attackers, reportedly associated with China’s Ministry of Public Security, have notably made targeted efforts to exploit these vulnerabilities. The true scope of these breaches remains unresolved, putting a spotlight on the imperatives of encrypted communications. Security Concerns over Cross-Platform Messaging Non-encrypted communication remains a critical vulnerability, particularly concerning cross-platform texting. While text messages sent between iPhone users via iMessage or Android users with Google Messages are encrypted, interaction between these two platforms lacks end-to-end encryption. Rich Communication Services (RCS), intended to facilitate universal messaging encryption, continues to face severe delays, lacking a clear timeline for resolution. TELECOM HACK CHAOS: U.S. SAYS “USE WHATSAPP AND PRAY” Chinese hackers just pulled off a heist on AT&T, Verizon, and other telecom giants, snooping on live calls, call records, and even top-secret systems in D.C. The U.S. government’s advice? “Use encrypted apps like Signal or… pic.twitter.com/RrtFMXI07f — Mario Nawfal (@MarioNawfal) December 4, 2024 Security experts strongly recommend WhatsApp, Signal, and Facebook Messenger, due to their comprehensive encryption capabilities. The FBI and CISA emphasize the significance of utilizing encrypted communications, to ensure sensitive information remains secure against cyber threats. Repercussions and Global Stance China has denied allegations regarding cyber misconduct, suggesting these claims constitute disinformation intended to harm its reputation. They propose the US should cease its own cyber offensives against other nations. As tensions rise, the FBI warns of existing telecommunications network breaches by Salt Typhoon, stressing the urgency of strengthened cybersecurity protocols. Chinese hackers steal information from hundreds of thousands of American cell phone users. @WKRN https://t.co/fsIk7GtIuK pic.twitter.com/PTdomTCSwS — Megan Fee (@meganfeetv) December 4, 2024 As Apple prepares the iOS 18.2 update, allowing default messaging app changes, individuals are further encouraged to adopt secure tools. The advisory underscores broader concerns related to state-sponsored cyber attacks, particularly from China, urging heightened encryption practices to safeguard privacy. Sources: Giant Chinese hack Hackers access Android phones The post Why Are US Authorities Recommending Encrypted Apps Now? appeared first on The Conservative Brief.