FBI disrupts Chinese cyber operation targeting critical infrastructure in the US

WASHINGTON (AP) — FBI Director Chris Wray says the FBI has disrupted a group of Chinese hackers who were working at the direction of the Chinese government to infiltrate critical infrastructure in the U.S. and other countries and to steal data from universities and government agencies. The hacking campaign known as Flax Typhoon installed malicious software on thousands of internet-connected devices, including cameras, video recorders, and home and office routers, to create a massive botnet — a network of infected computers. The FBI and Justice Department did not identify any of the targets by name but said they included universities, government agencies, telecommunications providers, media organizations and nongovernmental organizations.

Ship owner cut corners on repairs before deadly Baltimore bridge collapse, US says in $100M lawsuit

BALTIMORE (AP) — The U.S. Justice Department is suing the owner and manager of the cargo ship that caused the Baltimore bridge collapse. The lawsuit filed Wednesday in Maryland seeks to recover more than $100 million that the government spent to clear the underwater debris and reopen the port. The case alleges that the electrical and mechanical systems on the Dali were improperly maintained, causing the ship to veer off course before striking the Francis Scott Key Bridge in March. A spokesperson for Grace Ocean said the owner and manager had no comment at this time, but “look forward to our day in court to set the record straight.”

Americans can now renew passports online and bypass paper applications

WASHINGTON (AP) — Americans can now renew their passports online, bypassing a cumbersome mail-in paper application process that often caused delays. The State Department announced Wednesday that its online passport renewal system is now fully operational. It’s available to adult passport holders whose passport has expired within the past five years or will expire in the coming year. It’s not available for the renewal of children’s passports, for first-time passport applicants for renewal applicants who live outside the United States or for expedited applications. The current process had required people to print out and send paper applications and a check by mail.

Iconic Tupperware Brands seeks Chapter 11 bankruptcy

NEW YORK (AP) — Tupperware Brands has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. The company that revolutionized food storage decades ago says it plans to continue operating and will seek court approval for a sale. The filing comes after growing struggles to revitalize the business. Tupperware saw a resurgence during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, but demand has since waned amid rising competition. And financial troubles have continued to pile up for the Florida company. Tupperware began to struggle as more families gave up making dinner from scratch and started dining out more