
Beware of overseas spies bearing souvenirs, China warns travellers
citizens travelling abroad to be wary of accepting souvenirs that could be used for surveillance.
Advertisement
Items such as backpack charms, key rings, necklaces and earrings might have hidden
spy functions , including cameras, listening devices and tracking features, the Ministry of State Security warned on social media on Tuesday.
It said the public must understand national security regulations and exercise caution with these 'modified travel souvenirs'.
It added that overseas spy agencies might push these altered gifts through 'forced gifting'. State sector personnel, employees in classified roles, and
scholars and
students in universities and research institutions are prime targets, according to the ministry.
It said these gifts could pose a risk to state secrets if they entered classified workplaces.
Advertisement
Hashtags

Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles


South China Morning Post
8 hours ago
- South China Morning Post
Mainland Chinese hotel brands poised to reshape Hong Kong's hospitality scene, analysts say
Mainland Chinese hotel operators are expected to significantly increase their presence in Hong Kong's hotel industry , potentially replacing established brands in the coming years, according to analysts. Currently, Western and international operators dominate Hong Kong's hotel landscape, while Chinese ones have a minor presence. Among some of the more notable mainland players, BTG Homeinns operates both upscale and mid-market hotels in Hong Kong, including the Wharney Hotel in Wan Chai, Oasis Avenue in Tsim Sha Tsui, and Oasis Aurum 181 in Sai Ying Pun. However, mainland brands had significant potential for growth, said Hannah Jeong, executive director and head of valuation and advisory services at CBRE Hong Kong. 'The Chinese operators are increasing their footprint and it's a global trend,' said Jeong, adding that because 70 per cent of tourists in Hong Kong came from the mainland, Chinese hotels 'must show their presence' in the city. The shift reflects the growing ambition of Chinese hotel operators to expand beyond the mainland, which could give them a competitive edge in attracting hotel asset owners, according to CBRE. Tourists at the Observation Deck of the Peak Tower. Photo: Elson Li Hotel operations typically follow several business models, such as a master lease – where the hotel owner leases the asset to an operator – or hotel service management, whereby the operator manages the hotel on behalf of the owner.


South China Morning Post
a day ago
- South China Morning Post
Tackle unrealistic rents or watch Hong Kong turn into a ghost town
Is Hong Kong still a foodies' heaven? Or has that gone down the drain along with our reputation as a shopping paradise It's hard to let go of those titles, so much a part of Hong Kong's identity. We were, for a long time, a place associated with great food. We were a shopping mecca. The city that never sleeps. Over a nightcap with a childhood friend back in Hong Kong to visit family, I had what has become quite a familiar conversation about our beloved city. 'Wow. We are the only ones here.' 'Yeah. Nowadays, people head home by 10pm, latest.' 'Hong Kong is so quiet. I saw all the empty shops in Causeway Bay too.'


South China Morning Post
a day ago
- South China Morning Post
From war to Covid-19, how Hong Kong's Star Ferry stayed afloat in the last 127 years
Hong Kong's classic white-and-green Star Ferry has been sailing across Victoria Harbour for over 120 years, transporting passengers between Hong Kong Island and Kowloon. However, it has not been smooth sailing. The ferry has managed to stay afloat amid turbulent waters, including the 1966 riots, World War II, and the Covid-19 pandemic. How did a HK$4 (US$0.50) ferry ride transform from a mere transport tool into a Hong Kong icon? This episode of Hong Kong Authentic takes you through the history of the Star Ferry and what makes it so special to the city. Advertisement