China’s spy operations in the United States have grown significantly, using secret agents, business ties, and even students to gather information. These activities are part of a larger plan to steal technology, influence politics, and gain an advantage over the U.S.
Former CIA analyst Nicholas Eftimiades has studied nearly 900 cases of Chinese espionage, revealing a vast and sophisticated network. According to his research, China’s Ministry of State Security (MSS) handles about half of these cases, while the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) is responsible for 30%. The rest involve state-owned businesses, universities, and individuals acting as “non-traditional” spies.
Eftimiades recently spoke to a group of security experts about his findings, highlighting how China’s intelligence operations have infiltrated key institutions. He pointed out that Chinese officials use not only government agencies but also businesses, student groups, and even charities to collect intelligence.
Ex-Fed Advisor John Harold Rogers Accused of Economic Espionage for China
One of the most concerning strategies is how China recruits overseas Chinese citizens. Intelligence officers search for individuals with access to important information, often using business opportunities or family connections to lure them into spying. This method allows Beijing to gather data on U.S. politics, military operations, and technology without directly using Chinese government officials.
Political Infiltration and Secret Influence
One of the most shocking cases involves a high-ranking political figure in New York who secretly worked to push China’s interests. Over a decade, she influenced state policies to align with Beijing’s agenda while operating under the guidance of Chinese diplomats.
According to intelligence reports, she blocked any communication between Taiwan and New York officials, ensuring that representatives from the island had no access to decision-makers. She also arranged private meetings between U.S. state officials and Chinese representatives, often without proper authorization.
Investigators discovered that her husband received millions of dollars in business contracts from Chinese officials, serving as indirect payment for her influence. The couple used family members and charitable organizations to hide the money trail.
In a particularly alarming move, she even forged an American governor’s signature to invite Chinese trade representatives into the country. By secretly allowing PRC officials to listen in on confidential state meetings, she provided Beijing with direct insight into U.S. policies and strategies.
This case is not unique. Experts warn that similar tactics are being used in other countries, including Canada and several European nations.
Technology and Military Espionage
China’s spy operations go beyond politics. They also target technology and military secrets. One example is a telecommunications engineer in Denmark who leaked sensitive business information to benefit a Chinese company.
Chinese Cameras: A Growing Espionage Threat to the US
In 2019, Denmark’s top telecom provider was deciding between two companies—one Chinese and one European—to build its 5G network. The engineer, who wasn’t authorized to see the final bids, secretly accessed the European company’s proposal and shared the details with the Chinese competitor. Soon after, the Chinese company changed its bid, nearly securing the contract.
Stealing Military Secrets
China’s espionage also extends to the U.S. military. Two American Navy sailors were caught leaking sensitive information about fleet movements, training exercises, and weapons systems. One was recruited online by Chinese intelligence agents and even discussed his spying activities with a fellow sailor. Shockingly, during this time, he was granted U.S. citizenship—a moment his Chinese handlers celebrated.
Another Navy officer was recruited through a Chinese WeChat group. He provided China with detailed military plans, radar system designs, and operational orders for exercises in Japan. By using encrypted messages, he was able to send classified information without getting caught for months.
These cases highlight the growing reach of China’s espionage network. From government offices to technology companies and the military, no sector is safe. Experts warn that these operations are not only increasing in number but also becoming more sophisticated, making them one of the biggest security threats the U.S. faces today.
