Story perspectives

China's Espionage Outpaces West, Targets Everyday Citizens

10/9/2025

Summary

Story summary

Former Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) agent Mike Feinberg says China's espionage system is more extensive and aggressive than Western counterparts, targeting ordinary citizens for political activities.
He notes Western intelligence also spies but avoids corporate espionage.
In Russia, FSB leadership is ethnically Russian, raising concerns about crisis response.
The Kremlin launches Max, a state-controlled messenger to replace Western platforms.

History

Historical Context

Since 2010, the U.S. has accused China of extensive cyber-espionage, with over 100 reported cases causing billions in losses to American businesses. This ongoing conflict reflects a broader trend of Chinese state-sponsored espionage, which has escalated significantly, targeting not only corporations but also individuals, raising critical concerns for global security and necessitating robust countermeasures.

1 of 2

Story summary

Former Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) agent Mike Feinberg says China's espionage system is more extensive and aggressive than Western counterparts, targeting ordinary citizens for political activities.
He notes Western intelligence also spies but avoids corporate espionage.
In Russia, FSB leadership is ethnically Russian, raising concerns about crisis response.
The Kremlin launches Max, a state-controlled messenger to replace Western platforms.

1 / 2