Chinese Hackers Breach UK Ministry of Defence Payroll, Exposing Data of 270,000

May 6, 2024, 09:02 PM

A significant cybersecurity breach has occurred involving the UK Ministry of Defence, attributed to Chinese state hackers. The breach specifically targeted the Ministry's payroll system, compromising personal details including names and bank information of current and former UK service personnel. This data breach has affected potentially up to 270,000 individuals, encompassing regulars, reserves, and veterans. MPs are scheduled to be briefed on the extent of the breach on Tuesday. The systems involved were managed by an external contractor.