MI5 Warns MSS-Linked Institute Funded UK Academic Research
MI5 says an MSS-linked Chinese institute funded research involving more than 100 UK-linked academics; China calls the claims fabricated.
On September 30, 2026, MI5 warned that the China General Technology Research Institute (CGTRI), also referred to as the China Academy of General Technology, funds research that could improve China’s Ministry of State Security espionage capabilities. The Hacker News described CGTRI as an MSS front, while Security Affairs said it is closely tied to the MSS and exists mainly to fund such research. Topics include artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, covert communications, and steganography, and more than 100 UK-linked academics have contributed, sometimes possibly without knowing the funding source. MI5 urged universities to review current and planned collaborations and warned that continued assistance could lead to prosecution or liability under the UK National Security Act 2023. China’s UK embassy rejected the allegations as fabricated and defended academic exchanges; Security Affairs also reported that China lodged a formal protest with the UK.
- On September 30, 2026, MI5 warned about the China General Technology Research Institute (CGTRI), also called the China Academy of General Technology.
- MI5 said CGTRI funds research that could improve China’s Ministry of State Security espionage capabilities; one report called it an MSS front, the other said it is closely tied to the MSS.
- Funded topics include artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, covert communications, and steganography.
- More than 100 UK-linked academics contributed to CGTRI-funded projects, in some cases possibly without knowing the ultimate funder.
- Universities were urged to review current and planned collaborations; continued assistance may bring prosecution or liability under the UK National Security Act 2023.
- China’s UK embassy called the claims fabricated and defended academic exchanges; one report also said China lodged a formal protest with the UK.
Coverage timelineoldest first · each row is one article
- · 5d agoMI5 Says China’s MSS Funded Research Involving 100+ U.K.-Linked Academics
The Hacker News· 76
MI5 says China's MSS used front company CGTRI to fund research involving more than 100 UK-linked academics.
- · 3d agoMI5 Raises Alarm Over Chinese Funding of UK Academic Research
Security Affairs· 74
MI5 warns MSS-linked CGTRI funded research involving more than 100 UK academics, some unknowingly.