Taiwan Military Officer Charged with Leaking Classified Documents to China for Cryptocurrency

A Taiwanese military police lieutenant named Han has been charged with corruption for leaking classified cyber warfare documents to a Chinese buyer, receiving over USD 8,105 in return. The case, involving another military officer, highlights concerns over espionage and risks to national security amidst Taiwan-China tensions.

A Taiwanese military police lieutenant has been indicted for corruption and leaking classified documents to a Chinese netizen, as reported by Taiwan News. Identified as Han, the officer sold cyber warfare documents for cryptocurrency totaling more than NTD 260,000 (approximately USD 8,105), according to prosecutors.

The indictment from Kaohsiung's Ciaotou District prosecutors outlines that Han began his illicit activities in 2022, seeking financial gain to repay a loan. By 2023, Han enlisted a former company commander, Lin, to access the military's intranet, Taiwan News reported.

Han allegedly transmitted seven classified documents, including critical cyber warfare defense information, receiving over 8,000 units of the cryptocurrency Tether in return, which he later converted into local currency.

Charges against Han encompass corruption and national security violations, while Lin is accused of leaking state secrets. Prosecutors are pursuing a severe penalty for Han due to the seriousness of the alleged crimes, Taiwan News reported.

This incident underscores ongoing espionage concerns and vulnerabilities in Taiwan's military, particularly amidst heightened Taiwan-China tensions. The case highlights broader national security risks associated with cyber and electronic warfare faced globally.

In response, Taiwan's government has stressed the importance of stringent security measures to prevent future breaches. The incident also raises questions regarding the effectiveness of Taiwan's internal security protocols and potential vulnerabilities in military infrastructure, Taiwan News noted. (ANI)

(With inputs from agencies.)