An defense minister has confirmed that the Ministry of Defence is currently investigating the potential threats posed by Chinese cars, and personnel have been told to avoid talking about secret matters in all cars.
Security Guidance for MoD Staff
In a recent interview on a radio station, a defence minister commented on claims that MoD staff have been instructed not to discuss classified information while riding in Chinese vehicles.
He said that the ministry is “investigating” Chinese vehicles within its fleets, however stressed that security is a concern in all contemporary cars.
Our department has a collection of thousands of vehicles in the MoD and those vehicles account for a very small number.
But whether you’re driving a vehicle from China or a non-Chinese car, our instruction to our people is to avoid connecting MoD devices into their car, to avoid having discussions at a classified classification in any car, due to the growing threats of eavesdropping that exist in all automobile, to only have those confidential conversations in secure locations. That’s a wise and sensible thing for everyone worried about safety.
When it was put to him that it would be wise for the MoD to cease using all Chinese vehicles, the minister replied: That is exactly what we are looking into at the moment.”
Broader Security Background
This revelation follows claims from Scandinavian countries have warned the United Kingdom to the presence of multi-purpose kill switches in Chinese electric buses, which could allow China to switch off public transport and bring disruption to transport systems.
Furthermore, a Russian intelligence vessel was reportedly shining lasers at Royal Air Force pilots, labeled a “highly dangerous” action by defence officials.
The wider security environment highlights the significance of strong protocols and vigilance in every areas of government activities, including transport usage to discussions practices.
