The United Kingdom’s Secret Intelligence Service, MI6, is launching a dark web portal named Silent Courier to recruit informants and gather sensitive information worldwide.
The initiative, announced by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, targets individuals in Russia and beyond.
Set to be unveiled in Istanbul by outgoing MI6 chief Sir Richard Moore, the platform leverages the dark web’s anonymity to facilitate secure communication.
Silent Courier allows users globally to share details about illicit activities or offer their services to MI6 securely.
The platform is designed to protect user anonymity, with MI6 providing instructions via its verified YouTube channel on accessing it through VPNs and unlinked devices.
This move aims to strengthen UK national security by harnessing advanced technology to stay ahead of global threats.
Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper emphasized the portal’s role in national security, stating it supports MI6’s efforts to counter multiplying global threats.
The initiative follows a similar 2023 CIA campaign targeting Russian spies via social media.
As Sir Richard Moore prepares to hand over leadership to Blaise Metreweli, Silent Courier marks a significant step in modernizing MI6’s recruitment strategy to address evolving international challenges.