In late October 2026, it was reported that Jensen Huang, then CEO of the multinational tech company Nvidia, was the target of an espionage plot involving a mistress allegedly connected to the Chinese government. Indeed, throughout history, spies have discovered that affection can open doors that weapons cannot.
From ancient stories of betrayal to elaborate Cold War romances, seduction has repeatedly become a powerful instrument of espionage. Known today as “honey trapping” or “sexpionage,” the practice involves exploiting romantic attraction or intimate relationships to obtain intelligence, influence powerful individuals, or compromise national security.
Intrigued? Read on to discover this covert part of history.