Chinese spy balloon used US internet provider for swift data transfer, intensifying Beijing-Washington tensions

The Chinese spy balloon connected to an American internet provider to send and receive messages, mainly focused on navigation, reports NBC News. The American news station obtained these details from three unnamed sources. Officials familiar with the issue state that this connection enabled the transfer of large data amounts within short time frames.

The balloon, dubbed a Chinese spy device by American authorities, traversed U.S. airspace between January and February 2023. Subsequently, it was shot down by the American military. Media reports suggest that the balloon flew close to multiple American military bases to gather data. While Beijing admitted that the object originated from China, it asserted it was a stray weather probe. This incident has led to increased tensions between Washington and Beijing.

Several past and present U.S. officials reported that the Biden administration sought a warrant from a special federal court during the balloon's overflight. Obtaining the warrant would permit American services to collect intelligence data related to the balloon, including electronic surveillance and message monitoring through the American internet provider. No information related to the court's decision was disclosed.

The company whose services the Chinese object allegedly used has denied these claims. They cite their investigation and discussions with officials as supporting evidence. In an attempt to protect its sources, NBC News hasn't disclosed the name of the accused internet provider.