China-linked APT Uses AI Pentest Tool Artex in ConnectWise Attacks

A state-sponsored Chinese hacking group used an AI-powered penetration testing tool called Artex to target hundreds of organizations via ConnectWise, gaining privileged access to some environments.

Disclosed 23 October 2026 · Record updated 23 October 2026

Impact

Hundreds of organizations were targeted and attackers gained privileged access to some environments using an AI-assisted pentesting tool.

Our coverage

A locked steel vault door swings open as mechanical fingers insert a skeleton key, while shadowy hands reach through the widening gap to grasp glowing access badges.

Incidents

China-linked hackers used AI pentest tool Artex in ConnectWise attacks

SecurityWeek reported on 23 October 2026 that a state-sponsored Chinese group targeted hundreds of organisations and won privileged access to some of them.

23 Oct 2026

Sources

securityweek.comhttps://securityweek.com/china-apt-uses-ai-pentest-tool-artex-in-connectwise-attacks