The hackers used their access to telecom networks to target the metadata of a large number of customers, including information on the dates, times and recipients of calls and texts.

U.S. government officials urged Americans to use encrypted messaging apps to avoid having their communications tapped by Chinese spies.

Officials with the U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency and FBI went so far as to urge Americans to use encrypted messaging apps, according to a new report from NBC News, something that’s ostensibly about keeping foreign hackers out of your communications.

The FBI issued a statement Tuesday about the sightings, noting that drones have been reportedly seen flying in several areas.

One resident from Morris County resident reported that he had seen hundreds of the “drones” flying for hours at a time for over two weeks from his backyard.