CSIS issues espionage alert about suspect seeking sensitive information for Chinese intelligence

The Canadian Security Intelligence Service confirmed it had sent an 'espionage advisory' to federal departments and universities.

Canadian intelligence officials have warned federal departments about an individual they believe is trying to obtain sensitive information for China’s spy services, Global News has learned.

The Canadian Security Intelligence Service confirmed on Friday that it had issued an “espionage advisory” to government departments and universities, notifying them about the person.

“We can confirm that an espionage advisory was shared with certain federal departments and universities regarding a person who is attempting to obtain sensitive and privileged Canadian information on behalf of the People’s Republic of China intelligence services,” a CSIS spokesperson said.

“CSIS advised recipients to use extreme caution when dealing with this person and avoid discussing confidential and sensitive information with them. We also advised that suspicious encounters with this individual should be reported to the appropriate security officials.”

The CSIS spokesperson, Eric Balsam, said the intelligence service issued such warnings as part of its effort to “protect and safeguard sensitive and privileged Canadian information.”

“We do not hesitate to take measures, including the issuance of espionage advisories, to warn stakeholders within and outside the Government of Canada, as appropriate, about national security threats.”

In its response to Global News, CSIS would not say exactly when the advisory was shared, except that it was “in recent weeks.”

Nor did CSIS name the individual believed to be seeking information for China, or the departments and universities that are allegedly being targeted.