US Urges Encrypted Messaging to Combat Ongoing Chinese Telecom Hacks

The US government is recommending the use of encrypted messaging and secure devices as Chinese hackers continue to infiltrate telecommunications networks, accessing metadata and live calls. This situation highlights the ongoing debate over encryption backdoors, which US officials have sought for surveillance purposes but are criticized for potentially being exploited by malicious actors. The hacks, linked to a broad cyber espionage campaign by China, also raise concerns about the 1994 Communications Assistance for Law Enforcement Act, which mandates surveillance capabilities in telecom systems.