“While there is no evidence that CFPB has been targeted by this unauthorized access, I ask for your compliance with these directives so we reduce the risk that we will be compromised,” the email sent to all CFPB employees and contractors read.

Data access raises alarm over espionage targets

Salt Typhoon’s infiltration reportedly gave them access to extensive data, including call logs, unencrypted text messages, and even audio recordings of high-profile individuals connected to national security and political campaigns, including members of the Trump and Harris presidential campaigns, according to WSJ.

“Salt Typhoon’s access to call logs, unencrypted texts, and audio communications poses a severe threat to national security. Such data can reveal sensitive information about government operations, defense strategies, and intelligence activities,” said Arjun Chauhan, senior analyst at Everest Group. “For individuals in sensitive roles, this breach compromises personal security, exposes confidential communications, and increases the risk of coercion or blackmail.”