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MI5 Warns of Espionage Threats, Issues New Guidance to Protect UK Democracy
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![Photo of Dariia Mykhailenko]( "Photo of Dariia Mykhailenko")
MI5’s National Protective Security Authority (NPSA) has issued new guidelines to help shield the UK’s democratic institutions from foreign interference and espionage, amid growing threats from hostile states and their proxies.
The guidance, published on October 15, outlines the subtle tactics used by state-backed actors to gather intelligence, manipulate public opinion, or discredit political figures—often through covert engagement that blurs the line between legitimate interaction and malign activity.
The document is aimed at MPs, peers, councillors, parliamentary staff, and political candidates, providing practical steps to strengthen personal and institutional resilience.
It emphasizes that foreign intelligence services often target individuals not just for access to classified information, but for their insider knowledge and influence over policymaking or public discourse.
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While Russia, China, and Iran are named as primary sources of strategic interference, the NPSA stresses an “actor-agnostic” approach, encouraging vigilance based on behavior and methods rather than origin alone.
“I urge anyone working in government, public service or politics to be alert and trust their instincts if something does not feel right, and follow NPSA’s guidance,” said Dan Jarvis, Minister for the Cabinet Office and Home Office. “Foreign intelligence officers frequently operate covertly and exploit professional networking sites and personal vulnerabilities to build influence.”
The guidance builds on recent government efforts to counter foreign influence, including the introduction of the Foreign Influence Registration scheme. Jarvis noted: “Those engaging in political influence on behalf of foreign powers must register under the Foreign Influence Registration scheme, as Parliament and the public have a right to know who is seeking to influence political outcomes, and in whose interests.”
MI5 Director General Sir Ken McCallum emphasized the long-term risks posed by foreign interference: “When foreign states steal vital UK information or manipulate our democratic processes they don’t just damage our security in the short-term, they erode the foundations of our sovereignty and ability to protect our citizens’ interests.”
The advisory outlines several key threat indicators, such as efforts to build influence over time through personal relationships, attempts at blackmail, phishing schemes, and disinformation campaigns.
Earlier, it was reported that the United Kingdom is entering a “new era of threat” as technologies like drones and artificial intelligence reshape the character of warfare, according to a forthcoming 130-page strategic defense review.
The review warns that Russia poses an “immediate and pressing” danger, while China is described as a “sophisticated and persistent challenge” that at times cooperates with Moscow.
