Beware of honey traps business chiefs told

MI5 has warned business travellers to be on their guard against spies when visiting countries such as Russia and China.

The intelligence agency has also advised people to look out for "honey traps" and lavish hospitality, according to a posting on its website.

Diplomats, military personnel, civil servants, businessmen and hi-tech employees are warned that they may be targeted in certain countries.

"The UK is a high-priority espionage target and a number of countries are actively seeking UK information and material to advance their own military, technological, political and economic programmes," warns the site.

MI5 also warns against the "sex trap" and advises travellers to avoid "compromising behaviour".

It also advises avoiding taking unnecessary personal information such as bank statements or address books because they reveal lifestyle details.

The website warns travellers to watch out for bugging devices in hotel rooms and signs that phone calls or other communications are being intercepted.