Juan Pujol went by the codename GARBO during World War II. Born in Barcelona, he fought in the Spanish Civil War, claiming to have fought on both sides. He decided to use his deception skills to serve the role of a British double agent in the Second World War. Pujol was able to convince Germany that he was on their side and over the course of several years deliberately fed them false information.

GARBO created an entire fictional network of agents and was given information about defense tactics by the unknowing Germans. They told him that they believed that the Allies were preparing to invade Europe, and they tasked him with keeping them informed and up to date on any development. Meanwhile, Pujol’s responses were all a part of a plan to distract them and help the British carry out Operation FORTITUDE.

The cherry on top of this twisted situation? Pujol received decorations from both Germany and England. He was awarded an Iron Cross by Germany and an MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) by Britain. He is considered one of the most effective double-agents of all time.