Cautionary Tales with Tim Harford Schrödinger's Spy: Businessman, Fraud, or Russian Agent? - with Sam Jones
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Oct 10, 2025 
In this fascinating discussion, Sam Jones, a European security correspondent for the Financial Times, dives into the labyrinthine world surrounding Jan Marsalek, Wirecard's elusive COO. Alongside Paul Murphy, FT's head of investigations, they unpack the breathtaking scale of Wirecard's fraud and Marsalek's double life linked to Russian espionage. Jones explores modern spy narratives and their revelations about societal weaknesses, while Murphy shares his gripping encounters with Marsalek, including a cheeky bribe offer. This tale of intrigue weaves through espionage, charm, and corruption.
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Bribe Offer That Sparked Surveillance
- Jan Marsalek, Wirecard's COO, offered FT editor Paul Murphy a $10 million bribe conveyed through an intermediary.
- Paul met Marsalek for lunch to record the offer and discovered intense surveillance and dirty tricks around the reporting.
Spying Exposes Societal Weaknesses
- Spy stories reveal vulnerabilities in our institutions and how corruption opens doors for influence.
- Sam Jones argues modern espionage often exploits money, power and societal weaknesses rather than pure tradecraft.
Harden Your Digital And Physical Security
- Use strong digital security and be alert for physical surveillance when reporting on aggressive intelligence targets.
- Sam Jones emphasises caution because targets may face hacking, tails and violent threats.
