Great Cannon of China
The Great Cannon of China represents a significant evolution in state-sponsored internet control, functioning as an offensive cyber weapon alongside the Great Firewall. Unlike the defensive nature of the Great Firewall, the Great Cannon is designed to intercept and manipulate internet traffic to launch targeted attacks.
Key characteristics of the Great Cannon include:
- Ability to inject malicious code into unencrypted web traffic
- Capability to redirect legitimate user traffic for DDoS attacks
- Strategic positioning within China’s network infrastructure
- Potential to target specific websites, organizations, or individuals
First discovered in 2015 during attacks on GitHub and GreatFire.org, the Great Cannon demonstrates China’s growing capabilities in offensive cyber operations. This tool represents a significant shift from passive censorship to active cyber defense and attack capabilities.
The implications of the Great Cannon are far-reaching:
- Raises concerns about state-sponsored cyber warfare
- Challenges international cyber security norms
- Demonstrates the evolution of digital control mechanisms
- Highlights the growing militarization of internet infrastructure