EU Issues US-bound Staff With Burner Phones Over Spying Fears
The European Commission has begun issuing burner phones and basic laptops to staff members travelling to the US. This precaution is aimed at minimising the risk of espionage, a measure previously reserved for journeys to countries like China and Russia.
Key Points
- The Commission is providing burner devices to commissioners and senior officials attending meetings in the US.
- This move reflects escalating tensions and concerns over US surveillance of EU officials.
- It mirrors existing protocols for travel to higher-risk countries like China and Ukraine.
- The context for this decision includes deteriorating relations under the leadership of Donald Trump, who has made hostile remarks about the EU.
- Concerns have been raised about potential surveillance by the US government on EU’s digital communications.
Why should I read this?
This article highlights the increasing paranoia and operational changes within the EU due to security concerns, revealing how international relations can affect even routine diplomatic interactions. It is relevant to anyone following geopolitical developments or data privacy issues, offering insights into current trends regarding the protection of sensitive information during travel.
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