MI5: Chinese Spies Are Targeting UK Officials on LinkedIn

MI5, the UK’s internal security service, has warned that Chinese intelligence agents are using LinkedIn to contact British lawmakers, government officials, and policy experts. These agents pose as recruiters or consultants to build relationships and gather intelligence.

The approach is sophisticated and deliberate. MI5 has identified at least two individuals who appear to be working on behalf of Chinese state security: they use LinkedIn profiles to reach out to their targets under the guise of professional networking.

MI5’s alert covers a wide variety of people. In addition to MPs, the targeted groups include civil servants, economists, and policy advisors — anyone who might provide valuable access or information. The security service describes the operation as systematic and designed to influence and infiltrate key decision-making circles.

In response to the threat, the UK government is increasing investment in its own secure communication systems. Funds are being allocated to improve encryption, promote secure instant messaging, and strengthen identity protection across government agencies.

British lawmakers have also pushed back, with key officials stating that foreign espionage attempts will not be tolerated. At the same time, China’s embassy in the UK has rejected the allegations entirely, labeling them as false and politically motivated.

This warning from MI5 highlights concerns about misuse of professional social networks for espionage. It suggests a growing trend: that LinkedIn and similar sites are becoming new battlegrounds for influence and spying