In a high-profile escalation of US-China relations, the US Treasury Department has sanctioned Beijing-based cybersecurity firm Integrity Technology Group, also known as Yongxin Zhicheng Technology Group, Report informs via CEO Today.
The firm faces allegations of facilitating cyberattacks on critical US infrastructure. This decision has provoked strong condemnation from China, which accuses Washington of exploiting cybersecurity as a political weapon.
The sanctions, part of a broader US effort to curtail foreign cyber threats, have drawn sharp rebukes from Chinese officials and the targeted company, both of whom reject the accusations as baseless.
China's Foreign Ministry swiftly responded to the US action, criticizing it as an attempt to vilify Chinese companies and undermine the nation’s technological ambitions.
Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun denounced the sanctions, stating: "For an extended period, the US has exaggerated claims of Chinese cyberattacks and has resorted to illegal unilateral sanctions against our nation. China strongly opposes these actions and will implement necessary measures to protect its legitimate rights and interests."
China asserts its leadership in global efforts to combat cybercrime, highlighting its role in international cybersecurity cooperation and calling out what it perceives as US hypocrisy. Chinese officials argue that the US itself has engaged in widespread cyber surveillance and espionage.