A senior US intelligence analyst has warned of a growing form of espionage he calls “sex warfare”—a strategy where foreign operatives allegedly use seduction and deception to extract sensitive information from high-profile professionals. James Mulvenon, Chief Intelligence Officer of Pamir Consulting, told The Times that operatives linked to China and Russia are targeting Silicon Valley experts and attending major tech and investment conferences in the US.
Who Is James Mulvenon and Why Are His Claims Important?
Mulvenon is known for providing risk assessments to American companies investing in China. He revealed that he himself was approached through suspicious online profiles. He said: “I’m getting an enormous number of very sophisticated LinkedIn requests from the same type of attractive young Chinese woman. It really seems to have ramped up recently.” His statement holds weight because it comes from someone deeply involved in cyber and geopolitical risk evaluation.
What Does ‘Sex Warfare’ Mean?
‘Sex warfare’ refers to using seduction, emotional tactics, and personal relationships to steal confidential information or access restricted networks. While honey-trapping isn’t new in spying, Mulvenon says these operations have now become more widespread and organized. Operatives reportedly appear at events on Chinese investment risks, tech innovation, and global security—often with prior knowledge of attendee lists and internal schedules.
Where Are These Activities Happening?
According to Mulvenon, such incidents are increasingly reported at:
- Silicon Valley tech conferences
- Private business forums
- Events involving discussions on investments in China
He recalled seeing “two attractive Chinese women” attempting to enter a restricted discussion panel and noted that they seemed fully informed about the event. “It is a phenomenon. And I will tell you: it is weird,” he told The Times.
How Are China and Russia Allegedly Involved?
Counterintelligence experts, interviewed by The Times, claimed that China and Russia are sending operatives to gather technology-related intelligence. Additionally:
- In the US, China has started holding startup competitions that demand competitors to submit thorough business plans.
- Data shared during these events and sensitive intellectual property could be vulnerable to leaks.
In February, the US House Committee on Homeland Security reported more than 60 cases of espionage connected to efforts by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP).
Why Is This Alarming for the Tech Industry?
Data exchanged during such events, along with sensitive intellectual property, may be exposed to leaks. If this is true, industries working on artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and advanced weapons could be put at risk. This story qualifies as hard news with investigative elements, as it deals with intelligence alerts, possible international spying, and national security concerns.
