In July 2016, AP Photographer Bebeto Matthews captured an image of fitness tracking devices in use, displaying the potential risk these gadgets pose to U.S. military forces. Recent Pentagon directives aimed at curbing these dangers have prohibited troops from using fitness tracking or cellphone apps that reveal their locations in sensitive areas.
While not outright banning these devices, the Pentagon highlights the risk GPS technology poses to personnel. This concern is not unfounded. An example illustrates how adversaries can track soldiers’ movements through commercial smartphone data purchased from marketing firms. This practice has led to serious security breaches.
By April 2026, U.S. Central Command confirmed commercial smartphone data was utilized for targeting American forces abroad. Iranian missile strikes had compromised U.S. installations in the Gulf, forcing relocation of troops without traditional base security. These soldiers still carried devices broadcasting.locational data that is openly available for purchase.
Senators, including Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), called for immediate Defense Department action. Former intelligence contractor Mike Yeagley demonstrated vulnerabilities years prior, underscoring the minimal response since.
Issues with data exposure are long-standing. In 2018, the app Strava inadvertently revealed layouts of bases globally. By 2024, tracking troop movements with commercial ad data confirmed the need for increased security measures.
Current responses are inadequate. While advancements in military technology continue, reducing digital exposure remains crucial. Suggesting privacy settings does not address the core issue – apps create device profiles, revealing location despite settings. Standardized digital safety measures are absent, benefiting adversaries who exploit these weaknesses, particularly when foreign entities, like China, impose stringent data restrictions.
Effective solutions require technology to minimize broadcast signals from military devices and mandate comprehensive data visibility for commanders. Encouragingly, this week’s amendments to the National Defense Authorization Act present opportunities for strategic advancements.
Erik Prince, former U.S. Navy SEAL officer, urges congressional action on the Defense Department’s standards. Immediate intervention is vital to avoid costly lessons in future conflicts.