

Got a sneaking suspicion that somebody you know in China is actually a foreign agent? Reporting a foreign spy in China has never been easier with a brand new national hotline. Just dial 12339 and expose their espionage!

Xinhua announced the creation of the new hotline yesterday as a way to help maintain national security and punish troublesome foreign agents. The hotline is asking for information on suspicious activities like the buying and selling of state secrets, the stealing of national intelligence and the bribing and deceiving of government officials.

Of course, it goes without saying that this information should all be both “truthful and accurate.” False accusations will be prosecuted. Perhaps in time, they will set up a hotline for that too.

The increasing paranoia about foreign agents operating in China comes after the arrest of two Japanese nationals near the Korean border in September and then two more alleged Japanese agents in October. In the past, China has accused U.S. contractors, taxi drivers and Canadian coffee shop owners of espionage.

Not sure about what kind of people you should look out for? Luckily, a handy-dandy list of suspicious traits is circulating on WeChat to help you keep on your toes.



1) People with an unclear line of work, who work a number of jobs and are well-funded.

2) People who like to throw out controversial subjects at public gatherings in order to ignite debate and then quietly observe.

3) Overseas correspondents, missionary workers and some NGO members.

4) People who have a legitmate job according to their business card, but actually work irregular hours for a shell company or a new company.

5) Students with a wealth of study abroad experience that does not match with their age.

6) People who are particulary concerned with asking sensitive questions to those around them, not just limited to political, military, media and business.

7) People who regulary visit certain places to exchange good or documents

8) People who often participate in various seminars and business meetings and often throw out reactionary remarks and exaggerate the merits of foriegners.

Happen to know anybody like that?