Dalai Lama’s Birthday: China’s Cyber Espionage Targeting Tibetans Exposed
New research from US-based Zscaler ThreatLabz and the Tibetan Computer Emergency Readiness Team (TibCERT) has exposed two significant cyber espionage campaigns targeting the Tibetan community. These operations, linked to actors based in China, were launched in the weeks leading up to His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s 90th birthday on July 6, 2025.
The timing of these attacks, so close to a significant event for the Tibetan people, raises serious concerns about Beijing’s intentions. The report, initially published by Phayul, highlights the sophisticated nature of these cyber intrusions.
The details of the specific targets and the information sought remain undisclosed, however, the very nature of the attacks underscores the ongoing digital battle for influence in the Tibetan region.
This incident underscores the vulnerability of the Tibetan community to sophisticated cyberattacks and highlights the urgent need for enhanced cybersecurity measures to protect sensitive information and digital infrastructure. The implications extend beyond the Tibetan community, raising broader concerns about China’s global cyber activities. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the escalating tensions and the crucial role of digital security in the geopolitical landscape.