Chinese state security organs eventually discovered the abnormalities and launched an investigation. They found that the “developer” was actually an overseas espionage and intelligence agency that had planted Trojan horse malware onto the software programs. The malware could invade and manipulate computers and servers, allowing the agency to steal archives and data.
The agency used the infected software programs to conduct cyberattacks and theft against dozens of military institutes and high-tech enterprises, the ministry said. They have alerted the victims to the attacks to minimize potential losses.
Wang was given an administrative penalty according to the law, the ministry said, without giving details.
The ministry urged the public, especially IT workers, to be wary of such traps when offering technical services. They advised individuals to keep evidence and report suspicious activities to the authorities.