Chinese students have been warned by China’s top spy agency to be more careful with access to sensitive data. The agency advised students to stay away from foreign entities that might appear as “handsome men and beautiful women” who could fake their feelings and potentially lure them into spying, thereby compromising national security.
China’s ministry of state security released a detailed notification on its public WeChat social media account, cautioning that students could be manipulated in various ways to disclose sensitive information.
The ministry stated that foreign espionage and intelligence agencies have been actively targeting young students, taking advantage of their curiosity and willingness to explore new experiences.
These foreign agents often pose as university scholars, employees of research institutions, or consulting companies to gain the trust of students who have access to classified and sensitive scientific research data. They lure students with high-paying part-time opportunities under the guise of market research or academic exchanges.
Once students show interest, the foreign intelligence agencies offer so-called free training and guidance through social media, telephone, or video conferencing. In some cases, they even disguise themselves as “handsome guys and beautiful women” who feign romantic interest, drawing young students into a trap with false affection.
The ministry did not provide specific details about the foreign firms involved in these activities, and it could not be immediately reached for further comment. China’s crackdown on perceived threats to national security has led to several warnings this year, revealing cases of spying that have been uncovered.