China warns youth: Online dating, rock music potential spy traps
Chinese authorities have issued a warning to the younger generation, cautioning them against potential manipulation by foreign powers or spies through online dating and rock music. This alert is part of a broader initiative led by President Xi Jinping, aimed at strengthening national security by encouraging citizens to be more vigilant. The South China Morning Post reported that a newly introduced textbook for university students highlights these concerns.
Textbook highlights internet as key communication channel
The textbook, a product of a decade-long effort by Xi's core committees to synthesize principles from Marxist theory for national security, was released by China's Ministry of Education on Thursday, according to Chinese state media. It emphasizes the internet as a "key channel of communication," and warns that "pop culture and rock music are often used as covers" for color revolutions.
China's security ministry warns of 'secret-stealing traps'
In addition to textbook warnings, China's Ministry of State Security has also alerted young people about potential "secret-stealing traps" set by foreign spies through part-time job offers and online dating. The ministry suggests that these spies may target students in scientific research fields to extract sensitive information or obtain images of classified locations. "They may even disguise themselves as 'handsome men' or 'beautiful women' who are close friends, and drag young students into a false 'love' trap," says the ministry.
Public warnings against potential spy tactics intesified
China's Ministry of State Security has recently increased its public warnings, advising citizens on August 15 to be wary of everyday items like lighters, pens, and even dragonflies that could be used as spy cameras. A week later, it cautioned against "good-hearted" and "caring" individuals distributing money to the less fortunate, suggesting they could be spies attempting to win over young people like "sheep in wolf's clothing."
China's security ministry publicizes national security breach incidents
The ministry has been regularly publicizing instances of near misses with national security breaches. In June, it shared the story of a retiree who found batches of military secrets being sold at a recycling store for under $1. Since launching a WeChat account last year, Beijing's Ministry of State Security has been promoting claims that foreign spies are attempting to lure loyal Chinese citizens into betraying their country.
