General Tim Haugh Warns of China’s Cyber Threat to U.S. Infrastructure

NEW YORK, NY — In his first television interview since retiring, General Tim Haugh, former head of the National Security Agency and U.S. Cyber Command, warned that China has hacked into U.S. computer networks at an alarming level. He shared these concerns in an interview with Scott Pelley, airing Sunday on CBS’s 60 Minutes.

Haugh highlighted that the cyber threats from China extend beyond the military, impacting critical infrastructure and every American citizen. According to Haugh, since former President Trump‘s return to office, there have been significant changes within U.S. cyber defense leadership, including resignations and firings.

“Our overall capacity is getting smaller while we know China’s continues to grow,” Haugh stated. He emphasized the need for the U.S. government to utilize its existing capabilities and collaborate with the private sector to counter these growing threats.

Haugh’s warnings stem from alarming incidents, such as a breach in Littleton, Massachusetts. In November 2023, Nick Lawler, general manager of the town’s utility, was informed by the FBI that China had penetrated his utility’s computer network. The FBI indicated that Lawler was one of 200 targets of similar interest.

If China’s hackers had gained control of Littleton’s water system, Lawler noted, they could have posed significant risks, including the potential poisoning of the water supply. Fortunately, the breach was detected before operational control could be established.

Haugh said, “If you are willing to go after a small water provider in Littleton, Massachusetts, what other target is off the list? This is a national threat that needs addressing and affects every American.”

Chinese officials have denied the accusations of cyber intrusions. Meanwhile, the White House stated it is working to assess vulnerabilities and mitigate potential damage.

Haugh explained that the methods used by China include exploiting vulnerabilities in network equipment. In the case of Littleton, they found a weakness in a network firewall, a common issue when software vulnerabilities are neglected or when outdated equipment lacks necessary security updates.

He added that China’s access does not currently involve malware installation. Instead, they are gaining entry and laying low, ready to exploit the information if needed. Haugh expressed concern that China scans millions of U.S. devices daily.

Haugh asserted that these cyber activities aim to furnish China with leverage during potential crises, stating, “In a conflict, if they can divert our resources at home, that makes it more challenging for us to mobilize.”

Senator Mike Rounds of South Dakota stated that disruptions from China’s cyber program could deter American engagement in conflicts by destabilizing key industries, including Wall Street.

Haugh stressed the urgency of reinforcing security protocols within U.S. networks, recognizing that preventing access is significantly easier than attempting to expel an intruder.

Haugh is currently advancing cybersecurity education and consulting after his departure from government, emphasizing that if the U.S. does not dominate in cybersecurity, it risks falling behind, threatening national security and economic stability.