China-linked cyberspies backdoor semiconductor firms with Cobalt Strike

Cybercriminals have targeted Chinese-speaking semiconductor companies with a cyber espionage operation utilising TSMC-themed lures. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC), the largest semiconductor contract manufacturing and design firm globally, was imitated in the operation deemed by cyber intelligence company EclecticIQ, similar to earlier campaigns backed by Chinese state groups. The hackers deployed the malware loader HyperBro and novel backdoor ‘ChargeWeapon’ to gain remote access, exploiting TSMC’s reputation for stealthier compromise.