Brussels, Belgium. The European Union has imposed sanctions on two China-based companies and one Iranian firm over cyberattacks targeting EU member states. China’s foreign ministry said Beijing opposed the measures and urged Brussels to change course.
Entities and individuals designated
The EU listed Integrity Technology Group and Anxun Information Technology, both based in China, along with Iranian company Emennet Pasargad. Two co-founders of Anxun were also individually designated.
Allegations cited by the EU
According to an EU statement, Integrity Technology is assessed to have enabled the compromise of more than 65,000 devices across six member states. Anxun is accused of providing hacking services directed at critical infrastructure.
The EU also alleged Emennet hijacked advertising billboards to spread disinformation during the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Sanctions measures
The sanctions include asset freezes and travel bans for the named individuals. EU citizens and companies are prohibited from making funds available to the listed entities.
China’s response
China’s foreign ministry said Beijing opposed the measures and called on Brussels to “correct its erroneous approach.”
How do you think the EU sanctions will affect efforts to deter cyberattacks targeting member states?