Australia’s chief intelligence officer, Mike Burgess, recently issued a warning regarding two hacking groups with the potential to infiltrate the nation’s vital communications infrastructure. These groups, if successful, could cause significant disruption and destruction across the country.

While Burgess refrained from directly naming the Chinese government, he hinted at their involvement by stating that a particular nation, “no prizes for guessing which one,” is actively attempting to infiltrate critical infrastructure in Australia and other nations within the Five Eyes alliance.

Speaking at an ASIC conference in Melbourne on Wednesday, Burgess remarked, “These groups are hackers operating on behalf of Chinese government intelligence and their military.” He emphasized that while these entities have been involved in stealing sensitive data, the more severe threat lies in their potential to sabotage crucial infrastructure.

Reacting to these allegations, Chinese official Jiakun expressed that China has filed a formal protest with Australia. He suggested that such accusations could further strain the already tense trade and defense relations between the two countries.

“China strongly opposes these claims and has lodged a protest with Australia,” Jiakun stated.

“China firmly opposes it and has protested with Australia,” he said.

“[Burgess should] do more things conducive to the healthy development of China-Australia relations.”