A private technology security firm on Tuesday described in extraordinary detail efforts it blamed on a Chinese military unit to hack into 141 businesses, mostly inside the U.S., and steal commercial secrets. China denies the claim. Here's a look at the company, Mandiant, and why its report is significant.
What is Mandiant?
Chinese state media stepped up the war of words on Thursday over allegations of sophisticated cyberattacks on US firms, branding the accusations a "commercial stunt" and accusing Washington of ulterior motives.
American Internet security firm Mandiant earlier this week said that a Chinese military cyberspy unit is targeting US and other foreign firms and organisations with hacking attacks.
