French authorities have launched a massive operation to combat a cyberespionage campaign targeting thousands of computers within the country. The initiative comes just as the Paris Olympics are set to begin, highlighting the heightened security concerns surrounding the global event.
The malware used in the attack, PlugX, is a well-known tool employed by Chinese state-sponsored hacking groups. The operation aims to remove the malicious software from infected devices and disrupt the broader botnet.
While there’s no direct confirmation that the cyberattack is Olympics-related, the timing underscores the increased vulnerability of large-scale events to cyber threats. French officials have acknowledged the inevitability of cyberattacks during the Games but vowed to minimize their impact.
The country is also bracing for other security challenges, including potential terrorist attacks and sabotage, as evidenced by recent disruptions to the national railway system.
The operation to clean up infected systems is a significant step in France’s efforts to protect its digital infrastructure and safeguard sensitive information.