19 Feb 2026

Technology: Volt Typhoon - the infrastructure 'sleeper cell'

From Nine To Noon, 11:05 am on 19 February 2026
A ransomware attack rolling out across the globe has affected Australian offices of global companies.

A ransomware attack rolling out across the globe has affected Australian offices of global companies. Photo: 123RF

Tech commentator Tony Grasso looks at new warnings from security agencies here and in Australia about 'Volt Typhoon', a Chinese-sponsored hacking group that looks to disrupt critical infrastructure.

There's been a 416% rise in web-skimming and "vibe scams" - these are AI-built phishing sites that clone legitimate brands.

Australia has mandated that businesses with turnover more than $10m must report any ransomware payment within 72 hours...no more just "quietly paying the bill".

Cybersecurity expert Tony Grasso is Chief Information Security officer at COGENT. He worked at GCHQ in the UK and is a former Intelligence Officer in New Zealand.