Florida man sentenced for acting as agent of Chinese intelligence

A Florida man has been sentenced to four years in federal prison for conspiring to act as an unregistered agent for China’s intelligence agency, the Ministry of State Security (MSS). Ping Li, 59, a naturalized U.S. citizen originally from China, admitted to providing information to the MSS over a decade while employed at major U.S. companies.

According to court documents, Li worked as a “cooperative contact” for the MSS. He shared data about Chinese dissidents, pro-democracy advocates and members of the banned Falun Gong movement living in the U.S.

He also shared internal cybersecurity materials from his employers, including a major telecommunications company and an international IT firm.

Prosecutors revealed Li used anonymous online accounts to communicate with MSS handlers and traveled to China multiple times to meet with them. In one instance, Li provided biographical details about a Falun Gong member in Florida just days after being asked by his handlers. He also shared company information, including cybersecurity training materials, in response to specific requests.

Police arrested Li in July 2023. He initially denied involvement but later admitted to sharing information after being presented with email evidence.

The judge also ordered Li to pay a $250,000 fine. Li will serve three years of supervised release after his prison time.

The FBI led the investigation, which highlighted foreign intelligence activities targeting U.S. businesses and individuals. U.S. officials continue to monitor threats from espionage operations.