Chinese state-supported hacking groups are becoming one of the most serious cybersecurity concerns for the European Union, with experts cautioning that their activities often go unnoticed due to their discreet nature.
Unlike the highly visible cyberattacks commonly associated with Russia, Chinese-linked operations usually focus on quietly gaining long-term access to systems and collecting intelligence over extended periods.
According to Antonia Hmaidi, a senior analyst at the Mercator Institute for China Studies, one of the major risks involves cyber actors targeting small office devices used across Europe. These include routers, printers, and network equipment that frequently lack strong security protections, making them easier to exploit as entry points into larger systems.
“It’s not like Russian attacks, which are very visible. Therefore, we tend to underestimate it,” Hmaidi said.
Concerns over cyberespionage continue to rise
European authorities have increasingly expressed concerns over cyberespionage activities allegedly linked to China, especially as more incidents involving government agencies and private businesses continue to surface.
Rather than disrupting systems immediately, these cyber campaigns are often aimed at gathering confidential information and monitoring sensitive activity over time.
In response to growing security risks, several European institutions have tightened cybersecurity precautions. Earlier this year, members of the European Parliament travelling to China were reportedly advised to use burner phones and avoid carrying personal electronic devices.
Officials stated that the measures were introduced to minimise the possibility of surveillance or cyber intrusion during overseas visits. Lawmakers and staff members were also provided with security guidance and training before departure.
Similar safety protocols have been adopted by other EU institutions as well. Reports suggest that internal guidelines within the Council of the European Union recommend officials avoid carrying electronic devices to certain countries, including China. If devices must be taken, authorities reportedly advise wiping them completely after returning.
At the same time, staff members of the European Commission travelling abroad have reportedly been issued temporary phones and basic laptops to reduce the risk of espionage.
A stealth-driven cyber strategy
Cybersecurity experts believe Chinese cyber operations differ significantly from more aggressive attacks because they prioritise stealth, persistence, and long-term infiltration.
Instead of causing immediate and visible disruption, attackers quietly enter systems, observe operations, and gradually extract valuable information. This strategy makes detection far more difficult and allows intruders to remain active within networks for long periods without being discovered.
As Europe becomes increasingly dependent on digital infrastructure for governance, business, and communication, analysts warn that failing to recognise these hidden cyber risks could pose serious challenges to the region’s long-term security and technological independence.
