In China's Sights
It's well known that China won't stand for any criticism. There, opponents of the communist regime are simply not tolerated. But it seems Beijing now thinks it also has the right to ignore international borders and silence dissent anywhere it sees fit. Around the world it's setting up illegal outposts called "Chinese Overseas Police Service Stations", and as the name implies, the objective of these offices is clear. Our law enforcement agencies deny there are any of these stations in Australia, even though Chinese authorities openly publicise their existence. But as Tara Brown reports in a special 60 Minutes investigation, that's not the end of the intimidation. China is also using disgraceful new tactics to target Australians who dare to speak out.
Reporter: Tara Brown
Producer: Laura Sparkes

The Sting
Volunteering to help further the cause of science is a noble endeavour, but as Tom Steinfort discovers, being a human guinea pig can also hurt like hell. He has just experienced a spectacular but rather painful adventure around Australia with a group of researchers on an extraordinary mission. While most people would instinctively run from the dangerous creepy crawlies of the outback, these brave scientists deliberately seek out spiders, scorpions and centipedes, and then invite them to attack. Their aim is to get bitten to understand the pain of the stings. They then use the information, as well as the venom they collect, to develop much-needed medicines and painkillers. It's amazing work that's already saving lives.
Reporter: Tom Steinfort
Producer: Serge Negus

Scamdemic
Falling victim to a scammer is an awful feeling. It's not only the theft of money or personal information that stings, the thought of being tricked by lowlife crooks is enough to enrage anyone. Statistics show more than 95 per cent of Australians are exposed to telephone, text and internet scams each year. Even more alarming is the amount of money these thieves are stealing from us. Last year it exceeded three billion dollars. But on 60 Minutes, Amelia Adams reports there is finally some positive news. A major fightback is underway and it's one that aims to turn Australia from an easy target into an impenetrable fortress.
Reporter: Amelia Adams
Producer: Serge Negus

Who's the Boss?
For 24 years there was no dispute about who was the boss in Russia. Vladimir Putin seemed to proudly wear the label of the world's most feared strongman. But last weekend, all of sudden, his iron rule was challenged. Putin stumbled and for the first time appeared weak and vulnerable. The man threatening to topple the Russian tyrant was Yevgeny Prigozhin, arguably an even nastier piece of work than Putin himself. As the head of the Wagner group, he controls the brutal mercenaries who have been fighting alongside Russian forces in the illegal war against Ukraine. Tom Steinfort reports that what worries the world now is figuring out what Prigozhin's next move could be. And where.
Reporter: Tom Steinfort
Producer: Sheree Gibson