MI6 is launching a portal on the dark web in an attempt to recruit new spies for the UK, including in Russia. The secure messaging platform Silent Courier aims to strengthen national security by making it easier for the intelligence agency to recruit.
The outgoing chief of the UK’s Secret Intelligence Service, Sir Richard Moore, is expected to announce the portal in a speech in Istanbul, Turkey, on Friday morning. He will say: “Today we’re asking those with sensitive information on global instability, international terrorism or hostile state intelligence activity to contact MI6 securely online.
“Our virtual door is open to you.”
The Foreign Office said potential agents in Russia and around the world will be targeted by the UK.
“National security is the first duty of any government and the bedrock of the Prime Minister’s Plan for Change,” said Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper.
“As the world changes, and the threats we’re facing multiply, we must ensure the UK is always one step ahead of our adversaries. Our world-class intelligence agencies are at the coalface of this challenge, working behind the scenes to keep British people safe.
“Now we’re bolstering their efforts with cutting-edge tech so MI6 can recruit new spies for the UK – in Russia and around the world.”
Anyone who wants to securely contact the UK with sensitive information relating to terrorism or hostile intelligence activity will be able to access the portal from Friday.
On MI6’s verified YouTube channel, instructions on how to use the portal will be publicly available.
Users are recommended to access it through trustworthy VPNs and devices not linked to themselves.
The launch follows a similar approach by the US’ Central Intelligence Agency (CIA).
In 2023, it published videos on social media channels to target potential Russian spies.
Sir Richard hands over his role as head of MI6 to Blaise Metreweli in the coming weeks.
Ms Metreweli will become the UK foreign intelligence service’s first female chief after serving as “Q” — head of MI6’s technology and innovation division.
