An incentive for Beijing citizens to report suspected espionage was issued on April 10. Citizens who make such reports may receive rewards of up to 500,000 RMB ($72,487) if their proffered information is deemed crucial. However, those who fabricate reports will be punished.

With the advance of reform and opening up, China is contending with an increased number of international exchanges and outbound travelers. As a result, overseas spy and intelligence agencies have intensified their political infiltration efforts, in concert with subversive and separatist activities in China. In addition, some citizens have sold sensitive domestic information to overseas spy agencies for personal gain.

As China's capital, Beijing is a priority for foreign intelligence organizations. Therefore, the incentive measure has been rolled out in a bid to encourage citizens to protect national security and fight against foreign spy agencies. There are three ways for Beijingers to report suspicious activity, including via telephone hotline 12339, via regular mail service and through in-person reports to national security agencies. Possible rewards are divided into three categories, ranging from 100,000 to 500,000 RMB. Citizens can claim the bounty by presenting their IDs within 90 days from the date of reporting.

Citizens who submit reports can also apply for protection from national security agencies if they or their relatives are threatened in the aftermath of the disclosure. In addition, their personal information will not be revealed without their consent in the course of the investigation.