China’s intelligence agencies have long been known to employ various methods in order to gather information on domestic and foreign issues. These methods include the use of secret intelligence programs, which are designed to collect information without being detected. In this article, we will take a deep dive into some of the known and suspected secret intelligence programs used by China, and discuss their implications for global security.
One of the most well-known and widely reported secret intelligence programs used by China is cyber espionage. China has been accused of engaging in cyber espionage against various countries, including the United States. The Chinese government has been known to use hackers to gather information on political, economic, and military targets. In addition, China has been accused of stealing sensitive information from government agencies, companies, and individuals. Chinese cyber espionage activities have been reported in various sectors, including defense, finance, and technology. This has led to concerns about the potential theft of intellectual property and the loss of sensitive information. (1)
Another secret intelligence program used by China is the use of human intelligence (HUMINT). China has a vast network of spies and informants both within and outside of the country. These individuals are often tasked with gathering information on political, economic, and military targets. The Chinese intelligence agencies have been known to use a variety of methods to recruit individuals, including bribery, blackmail, and coercion. This allows China to gain access to sensitive information and to influence decision-making in foreign countries. (2)
In addition to cyber espionage and HUMINT, China is also known to employ other forms of secret intelligence gathering methods, such as signals intelligence (SIGINT) and imagery intelligence (IMINT). SIGINT is the process of gathering information from electronic signals, while IMINT is the process of gathering information from images. The Chinese government has been known to use satellites, drones, and other forms of technology to gather SIGINT and IMINT. This allows China to gather information on military activities, as well as other forms of information that may be of use to the government. (3)
China’s intelligence agencies are also known to employ covert action as a tool for furthering their interests. Covert action refers to activities that are intended to influence events in foreign countries without the sponsorship or knowledge of the host government. Examples of covert action include propaganda, sabotage, and political subversion. China has been known to use covert action in order to influence politics in other countries, and to gain access to sensitive information. (4)
It’s worth noting that, while these secret intelligence programs are widely reported, it’s difficult to independently verify their existence and scope, as these activities are by definition covert. However, there are various indications that they are being used, and that they are having a significant impact on global security.
In conclusion, China’s intelligence agencies employ a wide range of secret intelligence programs in order to gather information and further the country’s interests. These programs include cyber espionage, human intelligence, signals intelligence, imagery intelligence, and covert action. These programs have significant implications for global security, and have led to concerns about the potential theft of intellectual property and the loss of sensitive information. It’s important for countries around the world to be aware of these programs and to take steps to protect themselves from potential espionage activities.
