The Ministry of State Security (MSS), China’s top spy agency, says foreign spies who are harming the country’s national security. The agency describes the different methods and techniques used by foreign spies to infiltrate national security. These are in the form of strange-looking bearded men disguising themselves as photographers, well-dressed businessmen and food delivery drivers. The identity of foreign spies is hidden in their ability to blend in with the people of the country.
Posters and slogans raising awareness of national security have become the norm in Chinese cities. From sidewalks to campuses and billboards, the country promotes the safety of citizens against all forms of foreign spy threats. Under the leadership of China’s leader, Xi Jinping, the secretive spy agency has expanded its public presence and awareness. The MSS started off as an organisation and has now become highly prominent throughout China.
Through a video marketing National Security Education Day, China’s powerful spy agency successfully raised awareness against the threat of foreign infiltration thus demanding action against the act. Posters and slogans raising awareness of national security have become a norm in Chinese cities. From sidewalks to campuses and billboards, the country promotes the safety of citizens against all forms of foreign spy threats. Foreign spies are sneaky and invade everything – this includes China’s weather stations and mapping apps.
Professor of political science, Xuezhi Guo, expresses how the MSS has provided guidance to other government agencies and society at large. He said, “These endeavours aim to foster anti-espionage awareness and enhance security measures in light of the evolving landscape of espionage threats. The goal is to empower Chinese citizens and entities with the knowledge and skills required to bolster their vigilance and preempt espionage activities effectively.”
The MSS was formerly established in 1983 and is responsible for managing intelligence and counter-intelligence operations across China. The agency previously operated discreetly until the leadership of the most authoritative leader, Xi Jinping, created more open communication and increased media visibility. The agency’s first public contact was established in 2015 through the setting up of a hotline that enabled people to report any suspected threats to state security. In addition, April 15 was declared as National Security Day in China.
In 2020, MSS launched the National Security Propaganda Studio, a dedicated office to produce materials such as posters, banners, and animations. The agency made its social media debut in August 2023, where it launched an official WeChat account. Given its low profile, a debut on China’s most popular social media profile was key in enhancing it’s social media presence.
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