U.S. reveals new computer breach

Several U.S. officials say hackers linked to China appear to have gained access to sensitive background information submitted by intelligence and military personnel seeking security clearances. The break is the second electronic breach of federal records revealed in a week.

The forms believed accessed, known as Standard Form 86, require applicants to fill out personal information about mental illnesses, drug and alcohol use, past arrests and bankruptcies. They also require the listing of contacts and relatives, potentially exposing to coercion foreign relatives of U.S. intelligence employees.