TAIPEI — Chinese cyberattacks on Taiwanese government agencies have risen 17% this year compared to 2024, reaching an average of 2.8 million attacks per day, according to the National Security Bureau (NSB).

The bureau warned that Beijing’s so-called “online troll army” is actively spreading disinformation to sow discord among Taiwanese citizens.

Taiwan has repeatedly criticized what it calls China’s “grey-zone” tactics, which include daily military drills and cyberattacks, as part of Beijing’s ongoing efforts to pressure the democratically governed island to accept Chinese sovereignty claims.

The NSB report, reviewed by Reuters ahead of a parliamentary session, identified medical systems, defense, telecommunications, and energy sectors as primary targets. The report also highlighted that cyber operations integrate dark web channels, online forums, and media outlets to disseminate fabricated content, undermining public trust in government cyber defenses.

The report noted more than 10,000 suspicious social media accounts—many on Facebook—have helped circulate over 1.5 million messages classified as disinformation. China is reportedly using artificial intelligence tools to create “meme-style” content targeting issues like Taiwan’s elections and trade negotiations with the United States, Taiwan’s key ally and arms supplier.

“Abnormal accounts amplify these narratives to influence public perception and exacerbate internal divisions within Taiwan,” the report said.

China’s Taiwan Affairs Office did not respond to requests for comment, and Beijing has routinely denied involvement in cyberattacks while accusing Taiwan of similar activities.