China’s APT Groups | A Look at Nation-State Cyber Warfare in 2025

Table of Contents

• What Are APT Groups?
• China’s Cyber Strategy in 2025
• Notable Chinese APT Groups
• Tactics and Techniques
• Global Impact of Chinese APTs
• Defending Against Chinese APTs
• Conclusion
• Frequently Asked Questions

What Are APT Groups?

Advanced Persistent Threats, or APTs, are highly organized hacking groups, often backed by nation-states, that carry out long-term, targeted cyberattacks. Unlike typical hackers who might aim for quick financial gains, APTs are like digital spies—patient, strategic, and focused on specific goals. These goals can include stealing sensitive information, disrupting critical systems, or gaining a foothold in networks for future attacks.

China’s APT groups are typically linked to government agencies like the Ministry of State Security (MSS) or the People’s Liberation Army (PLA). They operate with significant resources, including teams of skilled programmers, access to advanced tools, and sometimes even insider help. In 2025, these groups are more active than ever, driven by China’s ambitions to maintain its global influence and technological dominance.

China’s Cyber Strategy in 2025

China’s cyber strategy is deeply tied to its broader geopolitical goals. The country aims to be a global leader in technology, particularly in areas like AI, 5G, and semiconductors. Cyber operations play a key role in achieving these objectives by:

• Stealing Intellectual Property: Chinese APTs target industries like technology, defense, and pharmaceuticals to acquire trade secrets and innovation.
• Espionage: Gathering intelligence on foreign governments, military strategies, and political activities.
• Infrastructure Disruption: Preparing to sabotage critical systems like power grids or communication networks in case of conflict.
• Influence Operations: Spreading disinformation to shape public opinion or destabilize adversaries.

In 2025, China’s cyber activities are increasingly bold, with a focus on critical infrastructure in the U.S., Taiwan, and Southeast Asia. For example, reports indicate that Chinese hackers have doubled their attacks on Taiwanese government networks, with daily attempts reaching 2.4 million in 2024. This escalation reflects growing tensions over Taiwan’s status and China’s regional ambitions.

[](https://www.csis.org/programs/strategic-technologies-program/significant-cyber-incidents)

Notable Chinese APT Groups

China is home to several prominent APT groups, each with distinct tactics and targets. Below is a table summarizing some of the most active groups in 2025:

These groups are just a snapshot of China’s cyber arsenal. Each operates with a specific focus, from espionage to financial gain, and their activities often overlap, making attribution challenging.

Tactics and Techniques

Chinese APT groups are known for their sophisticated methods, which evolve with technology. Here are some of their key tactics in 2025:

• Spear-Phishing: Sending targeted emails that trick victims into revealing credentials or downloading malware. APT31, for example, uses fake news articles with tracking links to gather data.
• Zero-Day Exploits: Exploiting previously unknown software vulnerabilities before they’re patched. Salt Typhoon has used zero-days to infiltrate U.S. telecom networks.
• Living off the Land (LotL): Using legitimate tools already present in a system to avoid detection. Volt Typhoon is notorious for this stealthy approach.
• Supply Chain Attacks: Compromising third-party vendors to access multiple targets. The 2023 Storm-0558 attack on Microsoft 365 accounts is a prime example.
• AI-Powered Attacks: Leveraging AI for reconnaissance, code troubleshooting, and content creation for disinformation campaigns. Over 57 APT groups, including Chinese ones, have used AI tools like Google’s Gemini in 2024.
• [](https://thehackernews.com/2025/01/google-over-57-nation-state-threat.html)

These tactics show how Chinese APTs combine technical expertise with strategic patience, often staying hidden for years to achieve their objectives.

Global Impact of Chinese APTs

The activities of Chinese APT groups have far-reaching consequences. Here’s how they’re affecting the world in 2025:

• Critical Infrastructure Threats: Groups like Volt Typhoon target U.S. water and power systems, raising fears of disruptions during a potential conflict, such as over Taiwan.
• [](https://www.usip.org/publications/2025/06/element-surprise-space-and-cyber-warfare-us-china-rivalry)
• Economic Espionage: By stealing intellectual property, Chinese APTs give their industries a competitive edge, impacting global markets. For instance, Taiwan’s semiconductor industry has been heavily targeted.
• Geopolitical Tensions: Attacks on government networks in the U.S., Taiwan, and Southeast Asia escalate tensions, particularly in the South China Sea region.
• [](https://government.economictimes.indiatimes.com/blog/chinas-cyber-warfare-and-south-china-sea-implications-for-indias-national-security/122339055)
• Public Trust: Disinformation campaigns and data breaches erode trust in institutions, as seen in the 2024 Canadian election interference attempt.
• [](https://www.csis.org/programs/strategic-technologies-program/significant-cyber-incidents)

The global reach of these attacks underscores the need for international cooperation to counter China’s cyber operations.

Defending Against Chinese APTs

Protecting against APTs is no easy task, but organizations and individuals can take steps to reduce risks:

• Patch Systems Regularly: Keep software and systems updated to close vulnerabilities that APTs exploit.
• Use Strong Authentication: Implement multi-factor authentication (MFA) to make it harder for hackers to gain access.
• Monitor Networks: Use tools to detect unusual activity, such as unauthorized logins or data transfers.
• Educate Employees: Train staff to recognize phishing emails and suspicious links.
• Collaborate Globally: Share threat intelligence with other organizations and governments to stay ahead of APTs.

While no defense is foolproof, these measures can significantly reduce the likelihood of a successful attack.

Conclusion

China’s APT groups are a formidable force in the world of cyber warfare, driven by the nation’s strategic ambitions and backed by vast resources. From espionage to infrastructure sabotage, their actions have profound implications for global security, economies, and trust in digital systems. In 2025, the rise of AI and supply chain attacks has made these groups even more dangerous, challenging governments and businesses to stay one step ahead. By understanding their tactics and taking proactive steps, we can better protect ourselves in this digital age. Cybersecurity is no longer just an IT issue—it’s a matter of national and global security.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an APT group?

An APT group is a sophisticated, often state-backed hacking team that conducts long-term, targeted cyberattacks to achieve specific goals like espionage or disruption.

Why does China use APT groups?

China uses APTs to advance its geopolitical, economic, and military goals, including stealing technology, gathering intelligence, and preparing for potential conflicts.

Which Chinese APT group is the most dangerous?

It’s hard to pinpoint one, but groups like Volt Typhoon and Salt Typhoon are particularly concerning due to their focus on critical infrastructure.

What is spear-phishing?

Spear-phishing is a targeted email attack designed to trick specific individuals into revealing sensitive information or downloading malware.

How do APTs stay undetected?

APTs use stealthy techniques like Living off the Land, where they use legitimate tools in a system to avoid detection.

What is a zero-day exploit?

A zero-day exploit is a software vulnerability that hackers use before the developer has a chance to fix it.

Why are critical infrastructure systems targeted?

These systems, like power grids or water facilities, are targeted to cause maximum disruption in case of a conflict.

Can individuals protect themselves from APTs?

While APTs primarily target organizations, individuals can reduce risks by using strong passwords, MFA, and avoiding suspicious emails.

How does AI help Chinese APTs?

AI is used for reconnaissance, coding, and creating convincing disinformation content, making attacks more efficient.

What is a supply chain attack?

A supply chain attack targets a third-party vendor to gain access to multiple organizations, like the 2023 Microsoft 365 breach.

Are Chinese APTs only a threat to the U.S.?

No, they target countries worldwide, including Taiwan, Southeast Asia, Europe, and others.

How can businesses defend against APTs?

Businesses should patch systems, use MFA, monitor networks, and train employees to recognize threats.

What role does the Chinese government play in APTs?

Many APTs are linked to the Ministry of State Security or the People’s Liberation Army, receiving funding and direction.

Why is Taiwan a frequent target?

Taiwan’s strategic importance and tensions with China make it a prime target for espionage and disruption.

What is the Flax Typhoon group known for?

Flax Typhoon is known for operating large-scale botnets and targeting U.S. telecoms and Taiwanese entities.

How do APTs affect global economies?

By stealing intellectual property, APTs give Chinese industries an edge, impacting innovation and markets worldwide.

Can APT attacks be traced back to China?

Attribution is challenging, but cybersecurity experts often link attacks to China based on tactics and infrastructure.

What is the Salt Typhoon group?

Salt Typhoon is a Chinese APT that targets telecom networks, notably breaching U.S. ISPs like AT&T and Verizon.

How do APTs use disinformation?

They spread false information to influence public opinion or destabilize governments, often using AI-generated content.

What’s the future of Chinese APTs?

As technology advances, APTs will likely use more AI, quantum computing, and stealthy tactics to stay ahead.