Due to concerns about espionage, Boris Pistorius’s office (SPD) is severely restricting the use of private mobile phones within the Ministry of Defence and various German Armed Forces facilities. A recent security directive, as reported by “Der Spiegel”, states that personal electronic devices such as mobile phones, tablets, or smartwatches are not permitted in private or virtual meetings where content classified as “Verschlusssache – for official use only” or higher is discussed. This rule is particularly strict when discussing “the planning of exercises/deployments” or the immediate readiness of the German Armed Forces. Prior to such appointments, all personal devices must be locked up in lockers stationed in the hallways. The restriction also applies to rooms where sensitive documents are stored. The directive cites significant espionage threats as the reason for these measures, noting that espionage could even be used to prepare for sabotage. According to the warning, the German Armed Forces are currently considered a “priority intelligence target, particularly for Russian espionage activities”. Furthermore, China is also described as pursuing a “strategic and long-term approach to intelligence gathering”.
Bundeswehr Bans Private Phones From Secure Meetings Over Espionage Fears
