Cyber Actors Preparing to Exploit Critical US Infrastructure: Intelligence Chief

‘These actors put a premium on preparing offensive capability during peacetime,’ Director of National Intelligence Avril Haines said.

Director of National Intelligence Avril Haines speaks during a hearing with the Senate Armed Services Committee in Washington on May 4, 2023. Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images

Malicious cyber actors are ramping up attacks on critical infrastructure, infiltrating U.S. systems in preparation for a major conflict, according to a senior government official on May 2.

There was a 74 percent increase in the number of cyberattacks globally in 2023, according to Director of National Intelligence Avril Haines.