Since its implementation in July, the Counter-Espionage Law has heralded a new era for China’s Ministry of State Security (MSS). A body historically known for its covert and classified operations, the MSS is now firmly in the public eye. Over the past two months, it has revealed an array of espionage cases, illustrating the increased measures the nation is taking against spying activities.
China’s Concern with Espionage Activities
Analysts and experts point to the recent revelations regarding US espionage activities as evidence of a covert war against China. The aggressive nature of these espionage undertakings suggests a connection to Washington’s overarching strategy—aimed at curbing and containing Beijing’s influence on the global stage.
The continuous unveiling of these espionage cases underscores China’s commitment to fortifying its defenses against external threats. By spotlighting its robust counter-espionage activities, China sends a clear message about its capabilities and determination to protect its national interests against foreign subversion and interference.
Public Awareness and National Defense Education
In a significant show of public awareness, comic strips alerting the masses to the dangers of overseas spies made their appearance in subway stations on the 23rd National Defense Education Day. The MSS has also tapped into the digital domain. On its newly launched official WeChat account, it offers advice on safeguarding devices like phones and emails from potential threats.
Furthermore, educational institutions across China are being roped into this initiative. At the onset of the new academic year, schools countrywide introduced specialized classes. These sessions are geared toward equipping both teachers and students with the necessary skills and knowledge to detect potential threats and uphold national security.
The Western Perspective and Misinterpretations
China’s aggressive stance against espionage hasn’t gone unnoticed. Several Western media entities have expressed concerns, interpreting these measures as an overreaction or even a “witch hunt.” These outlets suggest that the Chinese government’s approach implies spies are omnipresent and that there is a widespread call for the public to detain suspected spies.
However, Chinese security professionals have countered these notions. They argue that China’s primary objective is to rally public support in its fight against espionage. Sole dependence on national security bodies isn’t adequate in tackling the expansive web of foreign espionage. Furthermore, the revamped anti-espionage law delineates clearer boundaries for espionage activities, ensuring that there’s no misuse. Adequate oversight mechanisms are in place throughout the anti-espionage proceedings, and there are established channels for reporting any potential violations of the law.
Seeking Public Support and International Reactions
In a startling admission, CIA Director William Burns, on July 20, conceded that his agency had successfully rebuilt its spy networks within China, recovering from significant impediments encountered a decade prior.
Reacting swiftly, the MSS initiated its WeChat account on August 1. This move, according to observers, marked a transition from covert operations to a more public-facing approach. The platform was used to solicit assistance from the citizenry in counter-espionage endeavors.
In a series of revelations that followed, the MSS was candid about its findings. On August 11, drawing references to the CIA’s disclosures, it announced the capture of Zeng—a staffer within a Chinese military-industrial group. Zeng was implicated in espionage activities, having been inducted by the CIA during his academic sojourn in Italy.
Within a short span, on August 21, another case surfaced. This incident involved a Chinese government employee who had been co-opted by the Japan branch of a US intelligence agency during his academic stint in Japan. The revelations didn’t cease there. On September 11, details about John Shing-wan Leung were made public. A permanent resident of China’s Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and a US passport holder, Leung had been implicated in espionage activities, ostensibly conducting them under the pretense of charitable work.
In tandem with these developments, China’s state-sponsored media outlets have also played their part. They have periodically highlighted early espionage cases over the past two months, reiterating the need for public vigilance.
China’s MSS Highlights National Security Threats Amidst Cyber Espionage Concerns
On August 28, China’s Ministry of State Security (MSS) took a public stance, outlining “four dangerous mindsets” associated with the US’ 2023 National Intelligence Strategy on its WeChat account. The public expose aims to illuminate common espionage activities, particularly given the US-led cyber-espionage that has seen an uptick recently.
Li Wei, a prominent researcher at the China Institutes of Contemporary International Relations, emphasized the escalating need for public support. “Relying solely on professional counter-espionage police isn’t enough. We need public involvement and their vigilance.”
US Espionage Efforts in China
The CIA’s recent focus on China is clear, having established two significant centers: the “China Mission Center (CMC)” and the “Transnational and Technology Mission Center.” Li Wei highlighted that while other centers had previously targeted nations like Iran and North Korea, the attention has pivoted towards China. One of these centers leans on human intelligence, and the other on tech advancements.
Li further pointed out the US’s global efforts to curtail Huawei’s 5G technology, emphasizing that its widespread acceptance would hinder US intelligence. The US has also often collaborated with foreign anti-China factions, aiming to destabilize China’s sovereignty.
Cybersecurity Threats in China
The MSS reports that cyberspace has emerged as a pivotal arena for espionage. Recent incidents have marked China as a significant victim of advanced persistent threat (APT) attacks. Dozens of cyberattacks from various global intelligence agencies have targeted China, some using “cover companies” while others outsourced to hacker groups.
Highlighting the challenges, a cybersecurity officer (who wished to remain anonymous) said, “Modern technology has revolutionized spy techniques.” He gave the example of advanced devices that can eavesdrop on conversations from vast distances, making espionage tougher to counter. The 2022 cyberattack on Northwestern Polytechnical University, where foreign agencies deployed specialized cyber weapons, stands as a testament to the sophistication of current cyber espionage.
Moreover, Li revealed that foreign intelligence is gravitating towards covert operations. In an example from April, foreign agents feigned “installing free seawater quality monitoring devices” for a fish farmer. These devices were actually designed to monitor sensitive oceanic data.
International Perspectives on China’s Counter-Espionage
The international media landscape has often presented China’s counter-espionage measures as a broad crackdown on foreign entities. Such portrayals warn of increased legal risks for foreign enterprises, journalists, and scholars.
Li Wei counterargued, “The media has confused counter-espionage work with standard cross-border economic activities.” He asserted that China’s primary goal is ensuring a secure business environment, free from espionage threats.
Highlighting global concerns, Chinese netizens have questioned the specific international “concern” over China’s actions when many countries have counter-espionage mechanisms.
On August 4, the MSS directly addressed foreign media concerns, stressing that protecting national security is a universal concern. They emphasized the transparent nature of the amended Counter-Espionage Law. Hu Xijin, a Chinese media professional, added, “We are committed to global openness, and our commitment will only strengthen.”
The Future of Counter-Espionage in China
In 2021, when the CIA announced their dedicated centers, China introduced the “Global Development Initiative,” followed by the “Global Security Initiative” in 2022. Analysts believe this showcases China’s dedication to balancing development and security.
Li underscored the revised espionage law’s essence, which refines espionage definitions to prevent misuse and expands its scope. He negated claims from some international media corners that the espionage law intrudes on public privacy. He elaborated, “Requests of counterintelligence officers to collect data must be stringently vetted. Citizens can report potential abuses.”
On August 7, the MSS emphasized their commitment to a regulated counter-espionage operation, announcing reporting channels on WeChat. Li concluded, “It’s not about everyone catching spies; it’s about everyone safeguarding national security through scientific and legal means.”
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