U.S. federal authorities have seized more than a dozen websites suspected of being used to recruit current and former American officials holding sensitive security clearances, highlighting growing concerns over foreign intelligence operations conducted through digital platforms.

According to an affidavit released by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), unidentified individuals allegedly operated the websites as fronts for fictitious consulting firms in an effort to recruit people within the United States and obtain sensitive, and potentially classified, information in exchange for payment.

The sites advertised seemingly legitimate positions, including “Remote International Affairs Analyst,” “Defense Analyst,” and roles targeting former military personnel, along with various consulting opportunities designed to create an appearance of legitimacy.

The FBI stated that seven individuals were recruited through the platforms and were initially asked to produce research papers on topics such as U.S.-China relations, Iran, and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Investigators said the individuals were later pressured to provide internal or exclusive information beyond the scope of normal research activities.