TAIPEI (Taiwan News) – China is using financial incentives and religious networks to infiltrate Taiwan’s military through retired officers, according to a Ministry of National Defense report released Saturday.

The report, which will be presented to the Legislative Yuan on Monday, was demanded by lawmakers in response to several recent espionage scandals involving active and former military personnel, per CNA.

According to the findings, Beijing relies on five primary channels to approach Taiwanese defense personnel: organized crime networks, underground financial systems, front companies, temple associations, and civil society organizations. Chinese intelligence operatives typically target retired officers first, then use them to make contact with active-duty staff.

Other common tactics include online outreach, financial incentives, and leveraging debt to pressure individuals into cooperation.

The report said that between January 2011 and March 2025, 87.5% of national security breaches were detected and reported by serving military officers—evidence, the ministry said, that counterintelligence education has had a strong effect.

The ministry noted that security reviews for defense personnel are conducted every three years, though more frequent checks may occur following promotions or departmental transfers. These reviews assess not only criminal records but also financial activity and travel history.