China has implemented big data and artificial intelligence technologies to monitor internet communications, installed 600,000 surveillance cameras for facial recognition, and strengthened international intelligence sharing through a 2019 memorandum of understanding with Russia.
Technological Means and Information Monitoring
Through big data and artificial intelligence technologies, China is now capable of real-time monitoring and analyzing vast streams of information, allowing for more effective identification and response to potential espionage threats.
On a technical level, China has established advanced network monitoring systems capable of tracking and analyzing internet communications. According to a report released in 2019, China’s cybersecurity law mandates that all internet service providers and telecommunications companies must cooperate with government surveillance requirements to ensure information security and data traceability.
In terms of specific implementation, China’s counter-espionage agencies rely on powerful technical teams and advanced equipment. With these tools, intelligence agencies can conduct real-time analysis of large amounts of data to identify suspicious communication patterns and behaviors. For example, through monitoring emails, social media, and other online communications, counter-espionage agencies can detect and track potential espionage activities.
China also uses facial recognition technology for widespread surveillance, particularly around key areas and important facilities. Reports indicate that Beijing had installed over 600,000 surveillance cameras by 2020, equipped with advanced facial recognition software capable of identifying and matching suspect identities within seconds.Additionally, China has strengthened supervision over foreign personnel and organizations through information monitoring measures. For instance, strict scrutiny mechanisms are implemented for visa applications and activities of foreign nationals in China, coupled with continuous monitoring through technological means.
In intelligence analysis, China’s counter-espionage agencies employ multi-layered, multi-dimensional analysis strategies. By integrating information from different channels, they construct a comprehensive intelligence network. This integrated approach to intelligence analysis significantly enhances the efficiency of counter-espionage activities, enabling national security departments to respond more swiftly.
Public Education and Awareness
China raises public security awareness and vigilance against espionage through various means. For instance, after the implementation of the National Security Law in 2018, extensive public education campaigns were conducted nationwide, including distributing promotional materials, holding lectures, and organizing exhibitions, reaching a wide audience.In the education system, national security education content has been added to primary, secondary, and higher education curricula. Through case studies and simulation exercises, students learn about the dangers of espionage and preventive measures. For example, Peking University offered an elective course on national security education in 2019, attracting hundreds of students and achieving positive results.
China vigorously promotes anti-espionage propaganda through the internet and new media platforms. For instance, state security agencies have released a large amount of related information on social media platforms like Weibo and WeChat, including espionage case analyses, prevention guides, and introductions to laws and regulations. Statistics show that in 2020, anti-espionage promotional content on Weibo alone garnered over 100 million views.At the community level, residents’ committees and village committees regularly organize meetings to promote the National Security Law and related regulations, explaining the importance of counter-espionage through practical cases. For example, a community in Shanghai attracted nearly a thousand residents by organizing an anti-espionage knowledge contest in 2021, achieving a positive social response.
Prominent actors and singers participate in recording promotional videos and engaging in public welfare activities to convey anti-espionage concepts to the public. For instance, in 2020, famous actor Jackie Chan participated in filming a national security education promotional video, using his influence to encourage more people to pay attention to and participate in anti-espionage activities.
International Cooperation and Exchange
China places great importance on international cooperation and exchange in counter-espionage activities, working closely with other countries and international organizations to address the threat of transnational espionage. This cooperation includes not only intelligence sharing but also joint exercises, technical cooperation, and legal assistance on multiple levels.
In intelligence sharing, China has established stable intelligence exchange mechanisms with multiple countries. In 2019, China and Russia signed a memorandum of understanding, agreeing to strengthen cooperation in counter-espionage and cybersecurity. Statistics indicate that through such cooperation, China and Russia successfully thwarted several transnational espionage activities from 2019 to 2021, ensuring both countries’ national security.In joint exercises, China regularly conducts counter-espionage and counter-terrorism joint exercises with other countries. For example, in 2018, China and Pakistan held a joint counter-terrorism exercise in Xinjiang, including counter-espionage operations, information sharing, and emergency response. These joint exercises not only improve cooperation levels but also enhance both countries’ coordinated operational capabilities in actual combat scenarios.
In technical cooperation, China collaborates with other countries to introduce and jointly develop advanced counter-espionage technologies. For instance, cooperation with Israel in the cybersecurity field has allowed China to acquire advanced network monitoring and defense technologies, enhancing its domestic counter-espionage capabilities. Reports indicate that a cybersecurity system jointly developed by China and Israel was deployed in multiple provinces and cities in China in 2019, significantly improving network security defense levels.In legal assistance, China has strengthened cooperation on espionage cases with other countries by signing extradition treaties and judicial assistance agreements. For example, in 2020, China and the United States signed a judicial assistance agreement, agreeing to provide legal support in the investigation and prosecution of espionage and counter-terrorism cases. Statistics show that since the agreement was signed, China and the United States have cooperated to crack several major espionage cases, combating the rampant arrogance of transnational espionage networks.