Chinese national arrested for tampering with DHS computers in Maine

Terry “Jiajia” Liu, a 39-year-old Chinese national and former U.S. Customs and Border Protection supervisor, has been arrested for allegedly tampering with Department of Homeland Security computers at three Maine border facilities.

A counterintelligence investigation reportedly captured hidden-camera footage of Liu breaking into government computers and replacing original components with inferior parts. According to court records, Liu allegedly traded the stolen original parts to an electronics retailer for credit. The investigation involves 46 altered computers.

Liu faces charges of theft and damage of government property. The government estimates the cost of replacing the inferior parts at $20,460, while the total cost to replace all 46 tampered computers is estimated at $105,800, excluding configuration expenses. Prosecutors are seeking to deny bail, citing Liu's financial resources and his proximity to the Canadian border.