Next U.S. Security Adviser Forewarns Strong Action Against China Hacking

U.S. Representative Mike Waltz, nominated as Trump's second national security adviser, has signaled tougher action against China's hacking of U.S. infrastructure.

Waltz, the appointee, told CBS in a video interview that China "must take a strong stand" in response to the announcement that it had hacked at least eight U.S. telecom companies to gain access to the communications records of senior officials and politicians.

"We need to impose higher costs and costs on those who continue to steal and spy on our data," he said, which is interpreted as meaning tougher public sanctions.

"The act of installing cyber bombs in our infrastructure, our water systems, our power grids and even our ports is even more serious," Waltz said, referring to the infiltration by the hacking group "Bolt Typhoon," which is behind China.

In particular, he stressed, "We should change the behavior of the opponent, not continue to expand the opponent's attack and our defense," adding, "President-elect Trump feels the same way."