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MI5 issues unprecedented warning over Chinese research links
LONDON: Britain’s MI5 has issued a rare public espionage alert warning UK academics about research links with the China General Technology Research Institute (CGTRI), which the agency says has close ties to China’s Ministry of State Security (MSS).
MI5 said more than 100 UK-linked academics had contributed to CGTRI-funded research projects covering areas including artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, covert communications and steganography.
MI5 raises concerns over research funding
According to MI5, CGTRI’s primary purpose is to fund research that could improve the technical capabilities of China’s state security service.
The agency said some academics and institutions may have worked with the organisation in good faith and without knowing about its alleged links to the MSS.
Steganography, one of the areas mentioned in the alert, involves concealing information within messages or other forms of data.
Universities urged to end cooperation
UK Security Minister Dan Jarvis has written to university leaders urging them to end arrangements with CGTRI, according to the British government.
MI5 said continued involvement with the organisation could carry legal risks under the UK’s National Security Act 2023, depending on the circumstances.
The warning is part of wider UK efforts to protect sensitive academic and technological research from foreign intelligence activity. MI5 has previously highlighted risks involving advanced technology, artificial intelligence and other commercially sensitive research.
China rejects espionage allegations
China has rejected previous British allegations of espionage, describing them as unfounded.
China’s embassy in London also criticised the latest warning, calling it fabricated and a form of malicious slander, according to reports.
UK balances security and China ties
The alert comes as Britain seeks to maintain economic and academic engagement with China while also increasing scrutiny of alleged foreign intelligence activities.
MI5 has previously warned about attempts to obtain sensitive information through academic research, professional networking platforms and other channels. In June 2026, the agency and other Five Eyes partners issued a joint warning about Chinese military intelligence services using online recruitment to target people with access to sensitive information.
The latest alert highlights the continuing tension between international research cooperation and concerns over the protection of sensitive technology and academic expertise.
