The Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO) has warned of the dangers of foreign spies using social networking sites to cultivate and train potential targets for espionage.
ASIO, in collaboration with its partners at the Five Eyes Alliance, debuted its public safety awareness campaign urging people to “think twice before connecting” online.
ASIO Director General Mike Burgess said foreign intelligence agencies are known to target Australians through social media and professional networking platforms if they believe they may be leaking sensitive information.
“Our message is a warning to all Australians to be aware of the personal information you choose to post online. You could be targeted because this information, if shared, could have serious consequences for Australia’s security, economy or your business.”
Last year, ASIO warned in its annual report that “hostile intelligence agencies” were using social media to target business and government figures.
Burgess declined to say which countries were trying to lure Australians online, but suggested there were several culprits.
“In the view of my agency, ASIO, more than one country or territory uses social networking sites to identify, train and cultivate relationships with Australians who have access to sensitive information.”
He also encourages people to proactively report when they suspect they are being targeted.
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