MI5 issued a rare public warning alleging that the China General Technology Research Institute (CGTRI) is a front for China’s Ministry of State Security and has used research partnerships with British universities to obtain sensitive technology information.

The security service said more than 100 UK academics received funding or awards linked to CGTRI, with research in areas such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, covert communications, and data-hiding technologies allegedly benefiting Chinese intelligence.

MI5 urged universities and researchers to end any collaboration with CGTRI immediately, warning that future cooperation could risk prosecution under the UK’s National Security Act 2023.

British ministers said universities must strengthen checks on foreign funding sources, while security officials described the alert as part of efforts to deter large-scale espionage activities, The Guardian has reported.

Universities UK and the Russell Group said institutions take national security seriously and would continue working with the government to manage risks while maintaining legitimate international research partnerships.