The FBI and other federal authorities have seized more than a dozen websites that investigators say were part of an online operation used by suspected Chinese intelligence-linked actors to recruit current and former U.S. government officials.
According to officials, the websites presented themselves as legitimate consulting and recruiting firms, advertising positions such as defense analyst and policy consultant.
Authorities said the operators used sophisticated tactics to enhance credibility, including AI-generated profile photographs, stolen identities, and professional networking platforms such as LinkedIn.
The alleged goal was to establish contact with potential recruits and gather information while concealing the true identity of those behind the effort.
The Chinese embassy in Washington rejected the allegations, describing them as unfounded.
The development comes amid increasing warnings from the Five Eyes intelligence alliance that foreign intelligence services are expanding efforts to recruit government personnel and individuals with access to sensitive information through online platforms and professional networks.
Related Tweet:
CASE UPDATE from @FBINorfolk and @FBIWFO: Justice Department, FBI Disable 13 Websites Backed by Suspected Chinese Agents That Sought Sensitive U.S. Information from Security Clearance Holders
— FBI (@FBI) June 10, 2026
Beginning in November 2023, the conspirators created at least 13 fake consulting… pic.twitter.com/Lv1Sm6Wvz1
Today, @USAttyPirro announced the federal seizure of 13 internet domains used to target U.S. persons—including current and former security clearance holders with access to classified and sensitive U.S. government information.https://t.co/UR9WjS8XNy
— U.S. Attorney DC (@USAO_DC) June 10, 2026
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TIPP Staff
