China has accused the United States of launching cyberattacks on its National Time Service Center, a key facility responsible for maintaining the country’s standard time. According to a statement released by China’s Ministry of State Security (MSS) on its official WeChat account, the U.S. National Security Agency (NSA) allegedly carried out multiple cyberattacks targeting the center. The ministry said any damage to the facility could have disrupted China’s communications, financial systems, and power supply networks. The MSS claimed that the NSA exploited security flaws in the messaging ser

China has accused the United States of launching cyberattacks on its National Time Service Center, a key facility responsible for maintaining the country’s standard time. According to a statement released by China’s Ministry of State Security (MSS) on its official WeChat account, the U.S. National Security Agency (NSA) allegedly carried out multiple cyberattacks targeting the center. The ministry said any damage to the facility could have disrupted China’s communications, financial systems, and power supply networks. The MSS claimed that the NSA exploited security flaws in the messaging services of an unnamed foreign mobile phone brand to steal sensitive information from staff members at the time center in 2022. The ministry further alleged that between 2023 and 2024, the NSA used 42 types of “special cyberattack weapons” to infiltrate the center’s internal network systems and interfere with its key timing operations. Although the ministry said it had gathered evidence, it did not make any proof public. It added that it had advised the center on strengthening its cybersecurity defenses to eliminate potential risks. “The U.S. is accusing others of what it does itself, repeatedly hyping up claims about Chinese cyber threats,” the statement said. The National Time Service Center plays a vital role in providing precise time data for China’s communication networks, financial transactions, power grids, transportation systems, and defense sectors. This accusation adds new strain to already tense relations between Beijing and Washington, which are grappling with disputes over trade, technology, and Taiwan. If verified, these latest claims could deepen mistrust between the two global powers and spark renewed debate over cybersecurity.

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