Chinese intelligence recruits academics through Linkedin, Czech report reveals

The Czech Security and Information Service (BIS) has issued a report today, warning that Chinese intelligence services use shadow profiles on LinkedIn. These profiles belong to fictitious consulting or recruitment company employees, mainly in Singapore or Hong Kong. The purpose of these profiles is to approach Czech academics. The report states that Chinese secret services use various channels to establish contacts with Czech scientists to gain influence and know-how.
The latest BIS report highlights that China is targeting Czech academics. Academics are offered financial rewards in exchange for reports and research aligned with China’s political interests. What begins as a seemingly legitimate professional opportunity often leads to deeper collaboration and sharing of sensitive, non-public information. The report underscores that these studies are generally an initial step for further cooperation involving providing specific information.
Additionally, Chinese agents often invite academics to travel to China, covering all expenses. As the BIS report warns, these visits strengthen relations and build commitment to China’s interests.
The report highlights that the Chinese diplomatic mission in the Czech Republic attempts to gather information through relationships with influential personalities, including scientists.
The BIS report also warned about China’s global ambitions of becoming a major economic superpower to rival the G7 countries. The report highlighted China’s attempts to access information and undermine democratic principles by infiltrating academic and professional networks.
Additionally, it cautioned against using foreign smart devices, such as smartphones and smartwatches, due to the potential risk of personal data misuse by state actors. While the report did not explicitly mention Chinese smart devices, it advised against products from countries with regimes with a higher risk of data misuse.