FBI Warns of Broad Cyber Threats Targeting 2022 Beijing Olympics
The FBI issues a warning about various cyber attacks and untrusted mobile apps threatening the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics and Paralympics. Authorities urge travelers and athletes to leave personal devices at home.
The FBI releases a Private Industry Notification to warn organizations connected to the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics and Paralympics about potential cyber disruptions. Malicious actors plan to use a wide variety of tactics, including distributed denial-of-service attacks, ransomware, malware, social engineering, data theft, phishing, and disinformation campaigns.
The notification highlights additional risks tied to mobile applications developed by untrusted vendors. To protect sensitive information from potential surveillance or data breaches, the FBI strongly advises athletes and attendees to leave their personal cell phones at home.
CISA encourages all travelers to the events to review the FBI's warning and follow the recommended security guidelines. Using a temporary, disposable device while in Beijing serves as a primary defense against these identified digital threats.