140 executives and program officials have been sent malicious emails

Oct 30, 2013 14:02 GMT  ·  By

A total of 140 top Israeli defense industry executives and program officials have been the target of a cyberattack allegedly launched by China. Authorities say they have quickly identified and blocked the attack.

The attack, presumably launched by the Chinese defense industry, took place several weeks ago when cybercriminals sent malicious emails to a German company with ties to Israel’s defense industry, reports Defense News, citing Israel’s Channel 2 News.

Officials have refused to comment and no one has named the German company in question. However, defense industry executives have confirmed that firms have reviewed their information and network defense protocols and procedures.

Earlier this week, the Associated Press reported that a hacker attack led to the shutdown of a major Israeli roadway, namely the Carmel Tunnels toll road.

The roadway was closed down on two consecutive days after an attack on security camera systems.