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Chinese hackers targeting Microsoft SharePoint zero-day vulnerability

Google and Microsoft report ongoing exploitation of a critical SharePoint flaw by Chinese hackers.

July 22, 2025 at 02:45 PM
blur Google, Microsoft say Chinese hackers are exploiting SharePoint zero-day

Recent reports expose a significant security threat affecting Microsoft SharePoint.

Chinese hackers exploit SharePoint zero-day vulnerability

Security experts from Microsoft and Google report that Chinese-backed hackers are actively exploiting a zero-day vulnerability in Microsoft SharePoint. This flaw, identified as CVE-2025-53770, allows attackers to steal sensitive information from self-hosted SharePoint servers, which many organizations use for document management. These hackers can not only implant malware but also gain access to the internal data stored on the affected systems. Microsoft has noted that this vulnerability has been exploited since at least July and is connected to several hacking groups, including Linen Typhoon and Violet Typhoon, both notorious for their focus on espionage and intellectual property theft. While Microsoft has issued security patches, organizations are urged to assume they may already be compromised if they are running outdated versions of SharePoint.

Key Takeaways

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Chinese hackers are leveraging a serious bug in SharePoint software.
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The vulnerability allows for significant data theft and malware installation.
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Microsoft identified three hacking groups exploiting this flaw.
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Organizations using self-hosted SharePoint could already be compromised.
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Patches have been released, but many still lag in implementation.
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This incident reflects broader cybersecurity challenges for all sectors.

"At least one of the actors responsible is a China-nexus hacking group, but multiple actors are now actively exploiting this vulnerability."

Charles Carmakal, CTO at Google's Mandiant, highlighted the scale of the threat.

"The vulnerability has been exploited since at least July 7, with multiple groups targeting it."

Microsoft's findings reveal a prolonged and coordinated hacking effort.

"Organizations running self-hosted SharePoint should assume they have been compromised."

This statement emphasizes the urgency for companies to assess their security.

"These hacks represent a serious escalation in cyber threats aimed at critical infrastructure."

The broader implications of these attacks raise concerns for national security.

The ongoing exploitation of this SharePoint vulnerability highlights the increasing sophistication of cyber threats from state-sponsored groups. Companies that rely on self-hosted solutions like SharePoint must prioritize cybersecurity measures, especially as vulnerabilities are discovered faster than patches can be deployed. This incident underscores a pressing need for organizations to take a proactive stance on their IT security, as attacks are not only targeting financial information but also sensitive intellectual assets. The involvement of multiple hacking groups suggests a wider campaign that could disrupt businesses ranging from governmental agencies to private corporations.

Highlights

  • This vulnerability allows hackers to steal sensitive data without warning.
  • Organizations should assume they have been compromised if using outdated systems.
  • State-sponsored cyber threats are becoming more sophisticated and widespread.
  • Companies need to enhance their cybersecurity measures to protect sensitive information.

Increased risk from state-sponsored hacking

Chinese-backed hacking groups are exploiting a significant SharePoint vulnerability, posing serious risks to organizations. This situation can lead to sensitive data breaches, espionage, and wider implications for national security.

The implications of this hacking campaign may resonate across multiple industries, prompting urgent calls for improved cybersecurity protocols.

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