The FBI has notified former President Donald Trump and Senator JD Vance’s campaign teams of a possible data breach involving their cell phones, allegedly orchestrated by Chinese-backed hackers. The cyber-criminal group, identified as “Salt Typhoon,” reportedly gained access to sensitive data by infiltrating major telecom providers, including Verizon and AT&T. The breach, disclosed to the campaign this week, has raised security concerns as both Trump and Vance are influential figures within the Republican Party and involved in ongoing campaign efforts.
Salt Typhoon, known for sophisticated cyber-espionage tactics, allegedly targeted the cell phone data of several U.S. officials in a bid to gather sensitive information, particularly on those involved in critical political and national security roles. The hackers reportedly exploited vulnerabilities in telecom infrastructure to intercept calls, text messages, and potentially sensitive data from their devices. While the exact extent of the breach remains under investigation, the FBI’s alert underscores growing concerns over foreign cyber-interference in American political activities.
Trump and Vance’s campaign teams have not yet issued detailed statements on the breach, but campaign aides acknowledge that heightened cybersecurity protocols are now in place. The breach’s timing, in the midst of escalating U.S.-China tensions, has intensified scrutiny over foreign cyber operations targeting American telecommunications networks. China has repeatedly denied involvement in state-backed cyberattacks, though experts warn that state-aligned groups like Salt Typhoon may be working to gather intelligence in the lead-up to the 2024 elections.
U.S. national security officials are monitoring the situation closely, as foreign access to political figures’ cell phone data could have implications for campaign strategy, policy discussions, and sensitive communications. This latest breach highlights the persistent vulnerability of telecom networks and the ongoing risks of cyber-espionage targeting prominent U.S. officials. The Trump campaign and other political organizations are expected to ramp up cybersecurity measures as the election cycle progresses, with law enforcement agencies coordinating to prevent further breaches.
