14/10/2025
October 2025 — (London) Britain’s domestic intelligence agency MI5 has issued a fresh warning about sustained foreign interference targeting the UK, identifying Russia, China, and Islamic Republic (IRI) as key actors behind long-term espionage and influence campaigns.
New guidance from the National Protective Security Authority (NPSA), a division of MI5, outlines how these states aim to advance their strategic and economic agendas by undermining democratic institutions. The advisory highlights the covert nature of these operations, noting that foreign agents frequently operate under the guise of legitimate roles—such as diplomats, journalists, academics, or lobbyists—making detection especially challenging.
The NPSA cautions that distinguishing genuine engagement from hidden influence efforts is increasingly difficult. It also warns that some individuals or organizations may unknowingly serve as intermediaries for hostile states, particularly in jurisdictions where laws compel cooperation with intelligence services.
This guidance is part of a broader initiative under the National Security Act to strengthen the UK’s defenses against state-sponsored espionage and manipulation.
