网络安全学院

“A hotpot dinner with hackers? Only in Chengdu!” I exclaim, chuckling. We’re standing before the Cybersecurity College of Southeast University, or 网络安全学院. Chengdu’s unique blend of laid-back culture and cutting-edge technology makes it a surprising hotspot for cybersecurity, and this institution stands at its heart. Chengdu, often called the “City of Leisure,” is famous for its teahouses and hotpot restaurants. But beneath this relaxed surface lies a vibrant tech scene, particularly in cybersecurity. The city boasts a high concentration of universities, including Sichuan University and the University of Electronic Science and Technology of China. These institutions churn out a steady stream of talented engineers and programmers, many of whom find their way into the cybersecurity field. Chengdu has become the second-largest hub for cybersecurity talent in China, right behind Beijing. This abundance of skilled individuals contributes to Chengdu’s growing reputation as a hacking hub. Several Chengdu-based APT groups, like APT41, have ties to local universities. Some members of APT41 even attended Sichuan University. Chengdu 404, the company behind APT41, has offered internships and scholarships to students from Sichuan University and Chengdu University of Information Technology. The connections between universities and these companies are undeniable. It’s not uncommon for business deals to flow through these channels too. Leaked documents revealed i-SOON, another Chengdu-based company, provided its cyber range platform to Chengdu University of Information Technology for a substantial sum. It’s even been reported that hackers in Chengdu favor hotpot restaurants for meetings. Imagine, clandestine discussions about network vulnerabilities and killer programs unfolding over steaming bowls of spicy broth. It’s a quirky detail that captures the unique atmosphere of Chengdu’s cyber underworld. So, as you enjoy the relaxed pace of Chengdu, remember the hidden layer of activity beneath the surface. The city’s combination of leisure and technological prowess makes it a breeding ground for innovation. And perhaps, over a shared hotpot dinner, the next generation of cybersecurity experts is being born.