It cited several cases of government officials using cloud storage to store classified information, adding that they had “weak security awareness” and had been punished.
But it did not say whether the cases involved espionage or what punishment the officials received.
It advised officials to disable all sharing if they must use a cloud drive and to encrypt documents, change passwords frequently and turn off the automatic backup option.
The Wednesday morning post also cited the laws on guarding state secrets and data security, calling on the public and government departments to ensure confidentiality in their work and to “raise awareness, strengthen understanding, fulfil obligations and take responsibility” when it comes to protecting secrets.
China passed a comprehensive data security law in 2021 that penalises companies that send national “core data” overseas without official approval from Beijing. It also requires government departments to uphold confidentiality and regulatory responsibilities.
The law broadly defines “core data” as any information related to national and economic security, people’s welfare and important matters of public interest.
Last month, a revised law on guarding state secrets also came into effect, adding more than a dozen provisions to expand the depth and breadth of its coverage.
The Ministry of State Security has become more active on social media over the past year to warn of threats from foreign spies, educate society about security and urge the public to share information about suspicious activities.
The ministry has also reminded the public of other risks. Last month, it sounded the alarm about foreign non-governmental organisations and foundations, saying they could steal “environmental data” from China under the guise of research and environmental protection.
