China-linked actors broaden AI cyberattacks as U.S. competition grows

Chinalinked cyber actors are increasingly targeting U.S. artificial intelligence companies, according to cybersecurity firms and researchers who say the focus has widened beyond stealing technical secrets. The reporting, published by CNBC on June 30, 2026, says attackers are now looking for information such as product roadmaps, supply chain weaknesses, and other human or business vulnerabilities that could help narrow the AI gap with the United States. CrowdStrike said Chinese entities were responsible for more than half of statesponsored intrusions aimed at technology companies in the year through March 31. Anthropic has also accused Chinese firms, including Alibaba, of trying to steal AI capabilities, while other startups have reported concerns about insider risks and social engineering. Experts quoted in the article said startups are especially exposed because they often lack the security resources of larger companies. The FBI said economic espionage remains a major threat to the U.S. economy and national security, while analysts noted that export controls, subsidies, and the race for AI talent are all shaping the competition.