News analysis

Data leak involving Chinese firm spotlights hacking-for-hire practices

i-Soon is one of many private cyber security firms competing for government and private contracts in China. PHOTO: BUSHIDOTOKEN/X
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BEIJING – Beijing has been systematically cultivating talent while also tapping private companies to serve its growing digital surveillance needs, as it sets its sights on becoming a cyber powerhouse.

China has been building its National Cybersecurity Talent and Innovation Base in Wuhan since 2017, and bolstered partnerships between schools and security agencies to develop talent and increase hiring.

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