MI5 warns UK academics to stop work with Chinese research institute
British intelligence agency MI5 issued a security alert on Wednesday telling researchers to cease collaboration with the China General Technology Research Institute.
Warning targets sensitive technology fields
The alert specifically names artificial intelligence and cybersecurity as areas where UK academics have contributed to projects. MI5 states that this funding directly improves the technical capability of China's Ministry of State Security for espionage activities. Researchers are being told to avoid any work linked to the institute which has strong ties to Beijing.
Hundreds of researchers involved in projects
The security service identified more than 100 UK-based academics who contributed to these funded initiatives. The warning covers topics including covert communications systems and steganography alongside standard artificial intelligence research. This action marks an unprecedented step for the domestic security service regarding Chinese state influence.
2 outlets, different leads
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The Guardian
MI5 China alert will send chill through UK’s cash-strapped universities
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South China Morning Post
UK accuses China of using academics to spy on AI and other tech research
Reported by
2 independent outlets. Headlines as published. Links open the original report.