Fake jobs, real intelligence gathering. Intelligence agencies across the Five Eyes alliance, including the FBI, MI5, and counterparts in Australia, Canada, and New Zealand, have issued a coordinated warning about what they describe as an “aggressive” online recruitment campaign linked to Chinese intelligence services. According to the advisory, operatives are using professional networking platforms such as LinkedIn, Indeed, and Upwork to pose as recruiters, consultants, or human resources staff working for legitimate-looking firms. The aim, officials say, is to draw in individuals who may have access to sensitive or strategically useful information. How the recruitment scheme works According to the Five Eyes bulletin, the operation often begins with online job advertisements seeking candidates for positions related to foreign policy, defense analysis or similar fields. Applicants’ resumes are then reviewed to determine whether they may have access to valuable information. Interviews are typically conducted online, with recruiters concealing their true identities. During these conversations, candidates may be questioned about government contacts, military activities or professional expertise. The recruitment process can then progress to trial assignments. Applicants …