China’s secret services issued a warning via WeChat to students, alerting them that they could be targeted by foreign agents seeking to gather information and outlining the methods these agents might use.
The message said that foreign intelligence agencies mainly focus on individuals with access to confidential scientific data, with agents often posing as academic fellows, employees of educational institutions, or consultants from advisory firms.
In other warning messages sent through the app, citizens were urged to be wary of pens, lighters, and even tissues.
China’s secret services claim that foreign agents take advantage of students’ “strong curiosity and desire to try new things,” often enticing them with high-paying part-time jobs.
Once students show interest, foreign intelligence agencies reportedly offer “free training and guidance” via social media, phone, or video calls.
Chinese authorities also warn students to be wary of “attractive men and women who may lure them into a trap of love with fake emotions.”
