Investing.com -- Chinese state-sponsored hackers have reportedly infiltrated the computers of senior US Treasury Department leaders, marking a significant breach within the agency. This information comes from a US official and another individual familiar with the matter who wished to remain anonymous due to the ongoing investigation.
The hackers gained access to unclassified material stored on the officials' computers, which included both laptops and desktops. The identities of the specific senior leaders whose systems were breached have not been disclosed.
The investigation has so far revealed that approximately 100 government computers were compromised. The hackers managed to access drafts and notes relating to policy decisions, itineraries and travel planning documents for Treasury leaders, as well as certain internal communications. The extent of the data taken is still being assessed by the agency.
The hackers, however, did not compromise the department's email system or classified systems, according to the sources. The breach provides a more comprehensive understanding of the intrusion into an agency that plays a crucial role in managing the national debt, issuing sanctions, and shaping US economic policy.
Chinese officials continue to refute allegations of state-sponsored cyberattacks. A spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry referred to the claims that China was behind the Treasury hack as "unwarranted and groundless" earlier this week.
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