TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taiwan’s National Security Bureau (NSB) Director Tsai Ming-yen (蔡明彥) briefed lawmakers on Tuesday about China’s ongoing efforts to undermine the country's security, focusing on the use of grey zone tactics, information warfare, and infiltration campaigns.

Tsai emphasized China’s use of various strategies, including cyberattacks, disinformation campaigns, and the recruitment of Taiwanese military veterans as tools to destabilize Taiwan, per CNA. He noted that the NSB has strengthened its internal cooperation between civil and governmental agencies to counter these threats, especially in combating misinformation, per CNA.

The NSB also highlighted the importance of international cooperation, particularly since the inauguration of US President Donald Trump, per CNA. Tsai stressed that Taiwan will continue to build on existing partnerships with allies to bolster its collective defense against Chinese influence.

Tsai reported that China has launched approximately 2.2 million cyberattacks this year against Taiwan’s government organizations, critical infrastructure, and key players in the tech industry. Chinese hackers are also reportedly using generative AI to create false information designed to erode public trust in the Taiwanese government and create social instability.

The NSB revealed that since the beginning of this year, China has spread around 510,000 false posts on social media platforms and online forums. These posts are part of China’s broader effort to sow division within Taiwan. The fake posts often capitalize on current hot-button issues, pushing misleading narratives via fake accounts and AI-generated content.

Tsai also highlighted China’s use of military exercises, including one held just last Tuesday, as a means of pressuring the nation. These exercises along with tactics such as launching balloons and damaging undersea cables are intended to exhaust Taiwan’s resources and personnel.

Another significant concern raised by the NSB was China’s attempts to infiltrate Taiwan by recruiting retired military personnel. Tsai noted that, unlike previous efforts focusing on high-ranking officers, China has expanded its recruitment strategy to target lower-ranking veterans.

The NSB also warned that China’s United Front tactics have extended beyond the military to include the civilian sector. These tactics include coercing Taiwanese companies to undermine the country’s sovereignty by issuing pro-China statements and pressuring them to remain in China.

Celebrities and internet influencers are also targeted, with some forced to create social media posts that support China’s narrative and appeal to younger Taiwanese.