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Government Data Stolen in Hack, Minister Confirms
**A major breach has been confirmed after a minister revealed that the UK government had been hacked, with an investigation ongoing into the incident.
The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) is working to fully understand the impact of the attack, which saw Home Office systems operated by the Foreign Office accessed. The NCSC is collaborating with government partners to investigate the incident.
Trade Minister Sir Chris Bryant has confirmed that investigations are ongoing after an attack in October, although he refused to speculate on who might be behind the breach. "We're working through the consequences of what this is," he said.
The UK government has not named any suspects, but it is understood that a Chinese-affiliated group may be responsible for the attack. The incident has been referred to the Information Commissioner's Office and has sparked concerns about the security of government data.
"Government facilities are always going to be potentially targeted," Sir Chris said on Friday. "We are working to close any gaps in our security."
The UK government has faced criticism for its handling of cyber threats, with intelligence agencies warning about increasing espionage from China using cyber and other means. The cyber-agency GCHQ has devoted more resources to counter threats from China than any other nation.
**Possible Targets**
The incident is believed to have taken place in October, with information possibly including visa details targeted. This raises concerns about the potential for sensitive data to be compromised.
UK intelligence agencies have warned that China's espionage efforts are becoming increasingly sophisticated and widespread. The UK government has been urged to invest in better digital defences to protect against these threats.
**China Denies Involvement**
The Chinese government has consistently denied any involvement in cyber-attacks targeting the UK. However, last year a spokesperson for the Chinese embassy in London dismissed allegations of Chinese espionage as "entirely fabricated, malicious slander".
**Sir Keir's Comments**
Earlier this month, Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said that the UK government's policy towards China was becoming increasingly erratic. He argued that building a careful relationship with China would be essential to securing UK national interests.
"We cannot ignore China on trade, climate change and other major issues," he said. "But we also need to have robust exchanges about issues affecting UK security."
**Expert Reaction**
Jamie MacColl, a senior research fellow in cyber and tech at the Royal United Services Institute (RUSI), warned that government departments often use outdated IT systems, leaving them vulnerable to attack.
Jake Moore, global cybersecurity adviser to software company ESET, said that government departments needed to invest in better digital defences because "they will continue to be targeted".
**What Next?**
The incident has sparked calls for greater transparency and accountability in the way the UK government handles cyber threats. As the investigation continues, it remains to be seen how hackers gained access to sensitive data and what measures can be taken to prevent such incidents in the future.