China’s Ministry of State Security has issued a warning to young people to be cautious of foreign intelligence agents posing as “handsome guys” or “beautiful women” looking to manipulate them into spying against China. The agency has been using its social media platform to alert the public to various foreign threats as tensions between China and the United States continue to rise. Recent cases, such as former aide Linda Sun being accused of acting as a secret agent for China, highlight the seriousness of these warnings.
The Ministry of State Security highlighted that foreign agents often target young people, particularly students, by offering job opportunities or online friendships in exchange for sensitive information. The agents may use tactics such as offering high pay for little work, treating students to meals and gifts, or pretending to be romantic partners to gain their trust. Once trust is established, the agents manipulate the students into engaging in illegal activities, such as photographing sensitive military areas.
The agency’s social media account frequently posts content, including comics and animated series, to educate the public on these threats. They have also disclosed details of alleged cases, such as employees of a Chinese company being jailed for illegally collecting railway data for foreign intelligence agencies. The Ministry of State Security has urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to authorities.
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