Taiwan strengthens defenses against rising Chinese espionage

Taiwan is facing a serious threat from spies working for China, according to experts. The government is taking steps to stop these infiltration efforts and discourage those who might betray Taiwan. While spying between Taiwan and China has been common for years, this problem poses a greater risk to Taiwan, especially with the ongoing threat of a Chinese military attack. Taiwan's intelligence agency reports that China uses many different methods to infiltrate military, government, and pro-China groups within Taiwan. The main targets are retired and active military personnel, who may be persuaded to steal secrets through money, coercion, or pro-China beliefs. These individuals might also help set up groups to assist an invading Chinese military. Former CIA analyst Peter Mattis explained that the scale and intent of China's espionage efforts make them particularly dangerous for Taiwan. Unlike other countries, China's goal is not just spying, but potential annexation, which threatens the survival of Taiwan as a nation. Data shows that prosecutions for spying on behalf of China in Taiwan have increased significantly. Last year, 64 people were prosecuted for espionage, a rise from 48 in 2023 and just 10 in 2022. Many of those charged are military veterans or active service members, facing long prison sentences. Political and cultural exchanges between Taiwan and China have provided opportunities for Chinese agents to recruit spies. With fewer such exchanges in recent years, Beijing has found new ways to reach Taiwanese citizens. Some have been lured through online games, financial assistance, or by criminal gangs. Members of Taiwanese society, including artists and politicians, have also been coerced into supporting China’s agenda. They may spread misinformation or share sensitive information, which further threatens Taiwan’s democratic system. In response, President Lai Ching-te has labeled China a "foreign hostile force" and proposed new measures to combat espionage. These include making cross-strait exchanges more transparent and reinstating military trials in peacetime, a controversial move in Taiwan's recent history. Public awareness about the dangers of espionage is crucial. Experts believe that if society views betrayal as unacceptable, it will be much harder for Chinese intelligence to recruit informants.