Chinese police in the northeastern city of Harbin have accused three agents of the US National Security Agency of carrying out cyberattacks targeting the Asian Winter Games held in the city in February.



China's state-run Xinhua News Agency said the police have revealed the names of the three individuals affiliated with the intelligence agency under the US Defense Department, and added them to a wanted list.



Xinhua quoted the authorities as saying the NSA launched cyberattacks against critical facilities in the energy and infrastructure sectors, with the intention of causing social disorder and stealing important confidential information in key areas.



The Chinese authorities also reportedly said the cyberattacks were carried out by the NSA's hacking unit, and that the University of California and Virginia Tech were involved in the operations.



China's accusations against the US come amid intensifying trade friction between the two countries.



While the US and China have accused each other of cyberattacks, it is unusual for Chinese authorities to announce the names of suspects.