A former CIA operative has claimed that China and Russia are deploying ‘sex spies’ to the United States to acquire technology and state secrets through psychological warfare. J. Michael Waller shared with Fox News Digital his experiences of encountering such tactics from America’s adversaries.

Waller recounted an incident in Poland, where a Chinese woman approached him, expressing interest in his work. Upon further interaction, he identified her as a spy and reported her to the authorities, leading to her expulsion from the country. He noted the spy had detailed knowledge about his background, even beyond his public biography.

Waller explained that these operations leverage human emotions and vulnerabilities. Spies exploit loneliness or the desire for companionship, using sex as a tool. The tactic, he says, dates back to ancient times.

Earlier this year, the U.S. government prohibited personnel in China from engaging in romantic or sexual relationships with Chinese citizens. Former U.S. Ambassador Nicholas Burns initiated this policy before departing his role.

Waller described the practice as a form of psychological warfare, aimed at professionals like engineers, programmers, and local officials. He stated spies attempt to form long-term emotional connections, sometimes culminating in marriages and families.

Former Russian ‘sex spy’ Aliia Roza told the New York Post about similar operations targeting Silicon Valley to access technology and trade secrets. Roza described the initial approach as ‘love bombing,’ involving flattery and provoking a desire to protect.

Waller offered advice: If an exceptionally attractive person from China shows interest and seems out of one’s league, be wary of espionage motives.