KOROR, Palau — Palau’s President Surangel Whipps accused China of a “major cyberattack” targeting his country’s government, calling it a tactic to weaken ties with Taiwan and the United States.
Whipps said the attack, which took place in March shortly after Palau signed a new security deal with the U.S., resulted in the theft of over 20,000 government documents. The stolen data later appeared on the dark web, according to the New York Times.
While a ransomware group claimed responsibility, Whipps pointed to the lack of financial demands and the data’s focus on Palau’s relationships with Taiwan and the U.S. as evidence of Chinese involvement. He called the attack “harassment” and a violation of Palau’s sovereignty.
China’s Foreign Ministry denied any involvement, reiterating its opposition to cyberattacks.
The incident has prompted offers of assistance from Taiwan, Japan, and the United States to bolster Palau’s cybersecurity.
The cyberattack comes amid heightened tensions in the Pacific region. The recently renewed “Compact of Free Association” agreements between the U.S. and three Micronesian nations, including Palau, solidified American influence in the strategically important region.