US Targets Online Network Accused of Gathering Sensitive Information
The United States has seized 13 internet domains that federal officials say were part of a covert operation designed to collect sensitive information from current and former American government and military employees. Authorities allege the sites were linked to individuals working on behalf of Chinese intelligence agencies.
According to the Justice Department and the FBI, the websites posed as legitimate consulting firms and advertised jobs aimed at attracting people with security clearances or insider knowledge.
Fake Consulting Firms Used to Recruit Targets
Investigators said the websites offered positions for analysts and consultants to lure applicants with promises of paid work. Once contact was established, individuals were allegedly pressured to provide confidential or non-public information.
Officials believe the operation relied on fake corporate identities and sophisticated recruitment tactics. The domains were taken offline and replaced with FBI seizure notices to prevent further activity.
Intelligence Agencies Warn of Growing Espionage Tactics
The action comes amid broader warnings from Western intelligence agencies about attempts to exploit professional networking platforms and online job boards to gain access to sensitive information.
US officials said these tactics have become increasingly common and stressed that individuals with government backgrounds should remain cautious when approached with unexpected consulting opportunities.
China’s embassy in Washington rejected the accusations, calling them false and politically motivated.
Authorities Vow Continued Crackdown
Federal authorities said shutting down the domains is part of an ongoing effort to disrupt foreign intelligence operations and protect national security. Investigators also warned that similar websites may still exist and encouraged anyone encountering suspicious job offers to report them.
