This chapter critically assesses widespread allegations that Confucius Institutes suppress academic autonomy and freedom, promote censorship, and even engage in espionage. While certain concerns may be understandable, the chapter contends that many of these claims significantly exaggerate the risks and challenges posed by Confucius Institutes and are not supported by substantive evidence. Using the example of the Lancaster University Confucius Institute, the chapter examines how it has actively contributed to open dialogue on China and navigated the boundaries of academic freedom, including on sensitive and politically charged topics—despite the pushback it has encountered. It further argues that accusations of espionage are often fuelled more by misinformation and disinformation than by verifiable facts. These narratives not only demonize Confucius Institutes and their staff, but also give rise to misguided policy responses aimed at addressing a problem that, in many instances, does not exist. The author views such claims with a sense of frustration—and, at times, finds the narrative bordering on the laughable.