China’s Ministry of State Security (MSS) has issued a public warning through its official WeChat account, cautioning government officials with access to classified information about the espionage risks lurking at social dinners. The statement signals a continued push by Beijing to tighten internal security among personnel handling sensitive state matters.
According to the MSS, foreign intelligence operatives may use the guise of friendly gatherings, consultations, or business investment meetings to host banquets, using the relaxed atmosphere to gradually extract classified information from unsuspecting officials. By building rapport over food and drink, spies can subtly probe for details about sensitive and classified projects.
The ministry stressed that “the dining table is not a vacuum zone,” and that those in classified positions must remain vigilant in every word and action. It noted that some officials, when flattered or loosened by alcohol, have lowered their guard and casually disclosed state secrets in an attempt to appear important or knowledgeable.
The MSS also warned that foreign spies may attempt to lure classified personnel into bringing sensitive documents or electronic devices to such gatherings. Officials are instructed to decline any dinner invitations that could compromise their impartiality, avoid contact with individuals of unclear identity, and follow the principle of “no contact unless absolutely necessary.”
The statement reminded officials to “remember that careless words cause trouble,” and to refrain from discussing state secrets, internal work matters, undisclosed policy documents, key data, or personnel arrangements in casual settings. The MSS reaffirmed that China’s Law on Guarding State Secrets explicitly prohibits the disclosure of classified information through private social interactions or personal communications.
The warning reflects Beijing’s broader and intensifying counterintelligence campaign targeting everyday social situations as potential security vulnerabilities.
Source: Sputnik News, April 4, 2026
https://sputniknews.cn/20260404/1070605523.html