Beijing Intensifies AI-Focused Cyber Espionage as U.S.-China Technology Rivalry Deepens

China-linked cyber actors are escalating efforts to target artificial intelligence and technology companies, reflecting the growing importance of AI in the broader strategic competition between Beijing and Washington, according to a new report released by cybersecurity company CrowdStrike.

The report found that organizations connected to China were responsible for more than 58% of state-sponsored cyberattacks targeting technology companies over the 12 months ending March 31. Many of these operations were focused on acquiring AI-related intellectual property, research, and technological capabilities.

CrowdStrike said the activity reflects an effort by Chinese-affiliated groups to obtain advanced technologies through cyber espionage as the country seeks to narrow the gap with leading U.S. AI developers. According to the firm, these actors are increasingly targeting organizations that possess valuable AI assets and proprietary innovations.

The findings come amid continuing U.S. restrictions on China's access to advanced semiconductor technology used for AI training. Export controls have limited Chinese companies’ ability to obtain some of the most powerful AI chips, creating additional pressure to accelerate domestic development and improve technological self-sufficiency.

Beyond attacks on technology firms, CrowdStrike reported that Chinese-linked groups also targeted government communications networks in Southeast Asia. The company said some attackers were able to maintain long-term access to North American technology organizations by exploiting security vulnerabilities and establishing persistent footholds within corporate systems.

The report adds to a growing debate over the role of cyber activity in the global AI race. Earlier this year, leading AI companies including Anthropic and OpenAI raised concerns that Chinese organizations were extracting competitive intelligence from American AI systems and research efforts. Industry observers have noted, however, that determining the boundary between legitimate competitive analysis and cyber-enabled intellectual property theft can often be complex.

CrowdStrike’s findings were released as AI developers continue to invest heavily in cybersecurity capabilities. Anthropic recently introduced new cybersecurity-focused features within its latest AI models and expanded partnerships with security firms, including CrowdStrike, to strengthen threat detection and response capabilities.

The report also highlighted cyber activity beyond China. CrowdStrike said groups linked to North Korea have continued efforts to infiltrate information technology workforces across North America, Europe, and Asia. According to the company, these operations are primarily aimed at generating revenue for the North Korean regime through access to overseas employment opportunities and technology networks.

As AI becomes increasingly central to economic growth, national security, and technological leadership, cybersecurity experts expect competition over data, algorithms, and intellectual property to intensify. The latest findings suggest that cyber espionage is becoming an increasingly important battleground in the global contest for AI leadership.