Authorities Report Successful Capture of Notorious State-Sponsored Chinese Hacker

Trump Administration Accuses Chinese Citizens of Research Theft

On Tuesday, the Trump administration made allegations against Chinese nationals suspected of stealing research from U.S. universities and individuals, purportedly on behalf of the Chinese government.

The Department of Justice (DOJ) stated that Xu Zewei, a 33-year-old described as a “prolific” state-sponsored hacker, was apprehended in Italy last Thursday following an indictment by the DOJ in November 2023. Previously, the details of the indictment had been sealed. Xu maintains that he is not the individual responsible for the hacks targeting American universities and law firms, asserting that someone else must be behind it, according to reports.

Xu, in collaboration with Chinese security agencies, allegedly stole Covid-19 research from American entities between February 2020 and June 2021. Interestingly, during the same timeframe, China was accused of withholding critical information about the virus’s origins. The hacking incidents reportedly focused on two unnamed universities—one in North Carolina and another in Texas—along with a law firm based in Washington, D.C. These institutions were engaged in the research of Covid-19 vaccines and treatments.

Italian attorney Enrico Giarda has stated that Xu’s phone was stolen in 2020, raising questions about whether someone else might have used it to commit the crimes he’s accused of. He mentioned they are currently waiting for the U.S. to provide the investigation file to better understand how Xu was identified as the perpetrator.

While the DOJ did not comment on the situation, Xu faces significant legal troubles. If convicted of charges including wire fraud, conspiracy, and unauthorized computer access, he could potentially face decades behind bars. The DOJ is in the process of seeking his extradition from Italy.

“As this case illustrates, we will pursue hackers, no matter how long it takes, and hold them accountable for their actions,” commented U.S. attorney Nicholas Gandhi. “The United States will remember.”