British Spy Switches To Dark Web To Recruit Russian Agents

Illustration. (Unsplash/Towfiqu barbhuiya)

JAKARTA - British spies will use the dark web to recruit informants and allow them to receive classified information from agents in Russia and around the world, the UK Foreign Ministry said.

The Secret Intelligence Service (SIS), Britain's foreign spy agency known as MI6, will use a Silent Courier dark web portal, which allows people to safely convey details about illicit activities anywhere in the world, or offer their own services.

"Today we ask those with sensitive information about global instability, international terrorism, or hostile state intelligence activity to contact MI6 online safely," MI6 chief Richard Moore said as he officially announced the plan in a speech in Istanbul on Friday.

"Our virtual door is open to you," said Moore, who had previously called on Russian citizens to become British spies.

MI6, which was founded in 1909 but only officially recognized in the 1990s, usually operates quietly, and only its leader - known as "C" - whose name is listed in public.

In the promotional video accompanying the announcement, MI6 stated the foundation of its previous operations was face-to-face meetings, but has now switched to dark web anonymity, a dark internet section with hidden sites often used by drug dealers, terrorists, and perpetrators of child sexual abuse.

Instructions on how to use the portal will be uploaded on the MI6 YouTube channel, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said.

"As the world changes, and the threats we face are increasing, we must ensure England is always one step ahead of our enemies," said Foreign Minister Yvette Copper.

"Now we are strengthening their efforts with cutting-edge technology so that MI6 can recruit new spies for Britain in Russia and around the world."

The news comes as Moore, who has been mentioned by several British media as a potential candidate to become the next British Ambassador to Washington, prepares to step down this month after five years in office. She will be replaced by Blaise Metreweli, MI6's first female head.