Five Eyes group says China targeting its personnel through fake job ads
AP News • • world
Key Points:
- China is targeting personnel linked to the Five Eyes intelligence alliance (Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the U.K., and the U.S.) through online job platforms to access classified information.
- Chinese military intelligence operatives pose as recruiters from private businesses or think tanks, advertising fake job opportunities to lure candidates with access to sensitive data.
- These agents use websites like LinkedIn, Indeed, and Upwork to post bogus job ads, then screen applicants for access to classified information and conduct virtual interviews.
- Targets include security clearance holders, military personnel, journalists, and think tank employees, especially those with indirect access to government information.
- Recruits are asked to produce reports on topics like China's foreign relations and defense, then pressured for more sensitive information, with payments made via platforms like PayPal, Western Union, and cryptocurrency.