The UK's Security Service (MI5) issued an espionage alert on September 30, 2026, stating that the China General Technology Research Institute (CGTRI) serves as a vehicle to fund research intended to enhance the technical espionage capabilities of the Chinese Ministry of State Security (MSS).
SecuritySecurity ServiceChina General Technology Research InstituteMinistry of State Security
MI5 issues espionage alert over CGTRI funding of AI and cybersecurity research
According to MI5, more than 100 academics with links to the UK have contributed to research projects funded by the MSS via CGTRI. These projects cover sensitive technical areas, including artificial intelligence (AI), cybersecurity, secure communication systems, and steganography—the practice of hiding messages within other non-secret data.
MI5 warned that the relationship between CGTRI and the MSS is not always transparent, noting that some researchers may be unaware that CGTRI is providing the funding for their projects. The agency advised academic institutions to immediately review any ongoing or planned collaborations with CGTRI and urged researchers to verify the ultimate source of funding when working with Chinese institutions to ensure CGTRI is not involved.
The alert also highlighted potential legal risks for researchers and institutions. Individuals or organizations that continue to conduct research funded by CGTRI are advised to seek independent legal counsel, particularly regarding the National Security Act 2023, which covers offenses related to providing support to or obtaining material benefits from foreign intelligence services.
Sources
- イギリス諜報機関のMI5がAI研究に資金提供している中国通用技術研究院との関係を断つよう大学に促す異例のスパイ警告を発令 （GIGAZINE, 2026-10-01）
- MI5