Harbin City, Heilongjiang Province — China has issued arrest warrants for three U.S. citizens suspected of conducting cyberattacks during the 2025 Asian Winter Games held in Harbin City, northeast China’s Heilongjiang Province.
The Harbin City Public Security Bureau announced on Tuesday that Katheryn Wilson, Robert Snelling, and Stephen Johnson are wanted in connection with large-scale cyberattacks orchestrated by the Office of Tailored Access Operations (TAO), an office affiliated with the U.S. National Security Agency.
Investigations revealed that the trio repeatedly targeted China’s critical information infrastructure and enterprises. The TAO was also identified as the mastermind behind a 2022 cyberattack on a leading Chinese aviation university.
When asked about the situation, the Chinese Foreign Ministry condemned the actions. Spokesperson Lin Jian stated on Tuesday that China will continue to take necessary steps to safeguard its cybersecurity.
“This move severely endangers the security of China’s critical information infrastructure, national defense, finance, society, production, and citizens’ personal information,” Lin said during a daily news briefing.
Lin added that China has expressed concerns to the United States through various channels regarding cyberattacks on key Chinese infrastructure. He urged the U.S. to adopt a responsible attitude towards cybersecurity, cease all attacks, and stop making baseless accusations against China.
