Chinese hackers target critical security infra of resource rich Kazakhstan
Kazakhstan with its hackers penetrating the telecom sector of the region’s biggest country.
Kazakhstan’s National Computer Emergency Response Team (Cert.kz), has recently alleged that a group of Chinese hackers had access to the infrastructure of Kazakhstani telecommunication operators for two years, according to persons familiar with the development. Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Defence and the country’s national airline may have been one of the targets.
At least one Chinese hacker group had full access to the critical infrastructure of Kazakhstani telecommunication operators in the past two years. The Kazakh Digital Development, Innovation and Aerospace Industry Ministry said in a statement on 20 February 2024 that it has, together with the National Security Committee, (KNB), begun analyzing the leaked information to learn more.
Besides fossil fuel resource rich Kazakhstan is being targeted by China to source Lithium, a critical element to power EVs. Kazakhstan is positioning itself as an important potential global supplier of high-quality lithium. Kazakhstan’s National Geological Service has provided a more exact estimate of lithium reserves, around 75,600 tons.
In recent years, Kazakhstan has also seen a steady growth in China’s demand for its organic and environmentally friendly agricultural produce. But Kazakhstan is also keen to increase trade with India via the International North South Transport Corridor (INSTC).
Kazakhstan’s Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov travelled to Moscow to attend a meeting on March 4
