The UK government has acknowledged it was hacked in October, Trade Minister Chris Bryant confirmed, partly backing earlier media reports about a breach targeting Foreign Office systems. Speaking to British media, Bryant said there “certainly has been a hack” but stopped short of confirming whether the attackers were linked to Chinese operatives.

Reports suggest a cyber gang known as Storm 1849, believed to have China links, may have accessed sensitive data—possibly including visa information, though officials emphasised a low risk to individuals. The hack was discovered and addressed quickly, Bryant said, and authorities continue investigating the incident.

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office says it takes data security seriously and is working to strengthen its defence against future cyber threats, reflecting growing concerns over state-linked cyberattacks in global politics.