Chinese state security authorities have issued a fresh warning about “honey trap” risks targeting personnel in the defence and technology sectors, citing a recent espionage case involving leaked state secrets.

According to an article published by an account affiliated with China’s National Administration of State Secrets Protection, a project manager at a mainland military enterprise was recruited by a foreign intelligence agency during an overseas work trip.

Espionage Case Cited

The official was reportedly lured into a sexual relationship by an operative posing as a business representative and later blackmailed into providing classified information. Two other Chinese nationals were subsequently recruited through the same network.

Authorities said the main defendant was sentenced to 10 years in prison for espionage, while others involved were also held criminally responsible.

Chinese security agencies said the case highlights weaknesses in overseas travel oversight and called for tighter supervision, mandatory reporting of foreign contacts, and stronger pre- and post-travel monitoring for state employees.