Spy Agency Identifies Internal Threats as Most Likely to New Zealand’s Security
The Security Intelligence Service of New Zealand has released a new report indicating that the biggest threats to national security are likely to come from its own citizens rather than foreign spies.
According to the report, disgruntled government employees or other New Zealanders in need of extra cash are seen as the primary threats to national security. This is only the agency’s second such report to be made public.
Director-General of Security Andrew Hampton emphasized that while last year’s report was a significant step in raising awareness, this year’s edition goes even further by acknowledging the fragile nature of national security, especially in light of recent tragic events.
Foreign interference activity, particularly from China, remains a concern as it limits the freedoms and protections offered by New Zealand’s democracy. The report also warns about the infiltration of student groups and potential threats from online and real-world extremism.
The report highlights the potential risks posed by insider threats, noting that acts of espionage, unauthorized disclosure of information, or even terrorism are among the potential damages that New Zealand could face. Despite these risks, the report states that New Zealand’s current terrorism threat level remains low.
