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The Great Heist: China’s Epic Campaign to Steal America’s Secret

Name: The Great Heist: China’s Epic Campaign to Steal America’s Secret
Author: David E. Sanger

by David E. Sanger

2023

320 pages

Crown Publishing Group

Non-fiction

Cybersecurity / International Relations

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Overview

The Great Heist delves into the extensive and sophisticated cyber-espionage campaign orchestrated by China against the United States. It reveals how Chinese operatives systematically targeted American companies, government agencies, and research institutions to acquire sensitive technological and military secrets.

David E. Sanger provides a detailed narrative of the geopolitical and technological stakes involved, illustrating the scale and impact of this covert operation. The book explores the methods used by Chinese hackers and the challenges faced by U.S. intelligence and law enforcement in countering these threats.

Through investigative reporting and interviews with key officials, the book uncovers the broader implications for national security, economic competition, and international relations. It highlights the urgent need for robust cybersecurity measures and international cooperation to address the evolving landscape of cyber warfare.

1
China's cyber-espionage campaign targeted a wide range of U.S. sectors including defense, technology, and government.
2
The operation involved sophisticated hacking techniques and insider recruitment to steal intellectual property.
3
U.S. intelligence agencies faced significant challenges in detecting and responding to these cyber intrusions.
4
The theft had profound implications for U.S. national security and economic competitiveness.
5
The book provides insight into the geopolitical tensions between the U.S. and China over technology and security.
6
It underscores the importance of cybersecurity reforms and international policy responses.
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David E. Sanger combines investigative journalism with expert interviews to present a comprehensive account.

Chapter 1: Introduction: The Cyber Battlefield

Sets the stage by describing the emergence of cyber warfare and the strategic importance of technology theft.

Chapter 2: The Players: China’s Cyber Apparatus

Explores the structure and key actors within China’s cyber-espionage operations.

Chapter 3: The Targets: America’s Crown Jewels

Details the sectors and institutions targeted by Chinese hackers for intellectual property theft.

Chapter 4: The Methods: Hacking and Insider Threats

Examines the technical and human tactics used to infiltrate and exfiltrate sensitive data.

Chapter 5: The Response: U.S. Intelligence and Law Enforcement

Analyzes the challenges and efforts by U.S. agencies to detect, attribute, and counter cyber intrusions.

Chapter 6: The Fallout: Economic and Security Consequences

Discusses the broader implications of the theft on national security and economic competitiveness.

Chapter 7: Conclusion: Toward a Cybersecurity Future

Reflects on lessons learned and the path forward for protecting against cyber-espionage.

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Key Takeaways

Recognize the scale and sophistication of state-sponsored cyber-espionage campaigns.

Understand the vulnerabilities in corporate and government cybersecurity infrastructures.

Appreciate the need for enhanced intelligence sharing and collaboration among agencies.

Implement stronger cybersecurity protocols to protect sensitive information.

Acknowledge the geopolitical dimensions of cyber theft and its impact on international relations.

Promote public awareness about the risks and realities of cyber warfare.

Support policy initiatives aimed at deterring cyber-espionage and enforcing accountability.

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