Intelligence Service publish guide on how to spot a Russian spy

One of Latvias intelligence services have mad a guide to the population on what to look for when scanning the public for Russian agents and saboteurs, amid fears the Country might be infiltrated.

Only at war with one country?

Russias war in Ukraine has lasted for more than three years, with both sides getting weapons and supplies from their allies. In Russias case also manpower in the form of North Korean soldiers and allegedly Chinese citizens as well.

NATO article 5

But in the Russian point of view, Russia is effectively at war with all of NATO. In an attempt to avoid the NATO-countries activating Article 5, also known as the Musketeers Oath, Russia wage an undercover war against the NATO-members.

Hybrid warfare

There have been several examples of Russian cyber attacks aimed at NATO-countries as well as suspected sabotage and russian spies being caught and deportet.

Intelligence service makes guide

In Latvia, one of the intelligence services have now made a guide to the population on how to spot possible Russian infiltrators, amid fears that the country is next on Putin’s hit-list.

2 million citizens

According to The Guardian, the Latvian Defence Intelligence and Security Service (MIDD) published the guide in its annual report to help the two million Latvians spot possible Russian operatives walking amongst them.

Not exactly James Bonds

When looking for spies, you would maybe seek out the nearest casino and look for a man in a suit sipping a Vodka Martini (shaken, not stirred) – but according to the MIDD, you’re looking for the exact opposite of a James Bond-figure

“Insufficient hygiene”

According to MIDD, you should be looking for individuals with “insufficient hygiene” that possibly also have a shabby or unkempt appearance.

Look at the haircut

Furthermore, the MIDD advise Latvians to look at the haircut, as a short, military-style one might be a red flag as well.

Nosing aroung?

Regarding their behaviour, your alarm should sound if someone makes nosy smalltalk with locals.

More than enough equipment

The final red flag mentioned is if a tourist does not know the terrain, but seems to be overequipped with things such as maps, radios or medical kits.

Sabotage, hits and unrest

The MIDD says that Russian operatives have upped their game in recent years, and the guide published could help the public spot possible Russian operators targeting “critical infrastructure and military facilities” for sabotage, hits and general formenting of unrest.