Chinese networks target laidoff, discontented former feds

A secretive Chinese tech operation is attempting to recruit recently laid-off U.S. federal workers through a network of fake consulting firms, as reported by Reuters.

The network, uncovered by Max Lesser of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, consists of multiple shell companies sharing digital infrastructure and posting job advertisements specifically targeting former government employees. These companies, including RiverMerge Strategies and Wavemax Innovation, list nonexistent addresses and demonstrate numerous red flags typical of foreign intelligence operations.

The timing of this recruitment campaign coincides with DOGE’s federal workforce reductions. Intelligence analysts warn that such operations typically escalate their targeting of vulnerable former government employees during periods of mass layoffs.

This revelation follows a broader pattern of foreign intelligence activities targeting U.S. government personnel. CNN recently reported that both Russian and Chinese intelligence services are actively pursuing disgruntled federal workers.

The FBI has issued warnings about Chinese intelligence officers masquerading as legitimate organizations to target current and former government employees. A White House spokesperson emphasized that both active and former government workers must remain vigilant against such threats.

The Chinese Embassy in Washington denies any knowledge of these recruitment activities.