Cell Phones On The Battlefield: Communicating In Afghanistan

Whether soldiers can bring cell phones to Afghanistan is a complex issue that involves balancing the need for operational security with the morale of soldiers. On the one hand, cell phones pose security risks and can be a gift to the enemy if they fall into the wrong hands. They are vulnerable to data leaks and cyberattacks, which could compromise sensitive information and put soldiers at risk. On the other hand, cell phones can provide a much-needed morale boost for soldiers who are far from home and craving connection with their loved ones. Different militaries have varied responses to this dilemma, with some banning cell phones altogether and others allowing their use with certain restrictions. The decision is often influenced by the specific circumstances of the deployment, the cultural and political context of the military, and the evolving nature of electronic warfare.

Security risks of soldiers' cell phones

Cell phones are a significant security risk for soldiers, especially in active war zones like Afghanistan. They are vulnerable to data leaks and security breaches, which can compromise sensitive military information and put soldiers in danger.

Cell phones are designed to generate and exploit user data, sharing it with numerous third parties, from device manufacturers to app designers and phone companies. Many apps leak data due to poor design or a lack of updates, and some apps access and share personal and device data unnecessarily.

Cell phones use various communication protocols such as SMS, MMS, WiFi, Bluetooth, and GSM, each with its own security flaws. Network providers use signalling protocols with known weaknesses, making it easy to intercept calls and messages. Spyware can also be used to read text messages, track calls, collect passwords, access microphones and cameras, and obtain information from apps.

Soldiers using cell phones can unintentionally reveal sensitive information about themselves and their units. For example, researchers have used soldiers' social media posts to trace the movements of military units, and a US Marine Corps lance corporal revealed his unit's location during a military exercise via a Facebook post. In addition, a popular fitness tracker app used by US military personnel exposed the locations of military and intelligence installations worldwide.

The use of cell phones by soldiers can also impact operational security. For instance, during the Russian annexation of Crimea and Eastern Ukraine, Russian soldiers and civilians shared information that helped verify Russian aggression. Similarly, during the downing of Malaysian Airlines Flight 17 over Ukraine, researchers used soldiers' selfies and social media posts to determine the route of the Russian military unit involved.

To mitigate these risks, militaries may ban or restrict the use of personal cell phones by soldiers, especially in active conflict zones. They may also provide soldiers with secure communication devices that are less likely to be tracked by the enemy. Additionally, militaries can employ signal jamming to prevent mobile phone signals from reaching adversaries.

Data leaks from soldiers' phones

Cell phones are a major source of data leaks for soldiers, as they are vulnerable to security breaches and cyber-attacks. Apps often leak data due to poor design or failure to install updates, and some apps access and share unnecessary personal and device data. In addition, cell phones use various communication protocols such as SMS, MMS, WiFi, Bluetooth, and GSM, each with its own security vulnerabilities. This makes them susceptible to network exploits, with more than half of attempts to tap calls on 3G networks being successful, and nine out of ten SMS messages being interceptable. Spyware can also be used to read text messages, track calls, collect passwords, and access the phone's microphone and camera.

The consequences of data leaks from soldiers' phones can be severe. For example, researchers from Bellingcat were able to use Russian soldiers' social media posts to trace the entire journey of a Russian military unit transporting a missile launcher that shot down a civilian airliner over Ukraine in 2014. In another incident, a US Marine Corps soldier posted a picture of his unit online during a military exercise, hypothetically exposing them to attack.

In response to these threats, militaries have implemented various restrictions on cell phone use by soldiers. The British Army, for instance, banned all soldiers from using their phones during a deployment to Afghanistan. The US Army's 82nd Airborne Division also prohibited soldiers from bringing cell phones, laptops, and other personal electronic devices on a deployment to the Middle East in 2024, citing concerns about operational security and potential cyberattacks.

To mitigate the risks of data leaks, the US government has taken steps to fortify soldiers' smartphones and tablets against malware and cyber threats. In 2024, the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) awarded a $21 million grant to Invincea to protect soldiers' Android-based devices. Invincea's software codes the operating system, and if a device is lost or stolen, it fills the device's memory with random, useless data. Additionally, Invincea is working with DARPA to create a virtual environment for apps to run on, preventing confidential information from being accessed. These measures aim to separate untrusted apps and content from the operating system, preventing the compromise of sensitive information.

Despite these efforts, data leaks from soldiers' phones remain a significant concern for militaries around the world. The impact of such leaks can range from compromising operational security to endangering the lives of soldiers and their families. As cell phones become increasingly integrated into daily life, addressing these security vulnerabilities will be crucial to ensuring the safety and security of military personnel and their loved ones.

Impact of cell phones on operational security

Cell phones have a significant impact on operational security, presenting both advantages and challenges for soldiers. On the one hand, cell phones can enhance communication, connectivity, and morale for soldiers deployed in remote locations. On the other hand, they introduce several security risks and challenges that need to be carefully addressed. Here are some key ways in which cell phones impact operational security:

Security Risks and Data Leaks:

Cell phones are notoriously insecure and vulnerable to various security threats. They use multiple communication protocols (SMS, MMS, WiFi, Bluetooth, GSM) that have known security vulnerabilities, making them attractive targets for attackers. Apps and operating systems may have security flaws that can be exploited, and many apps leak data due to poor design or lack of updates. Spyware and other malicious software can compromise sensitive information, track locations, and even control device functions.

Operational Security Compromise:

The use of cell phones by soldiers can undermine operational security. For example, researchers have used soldiers' social media posts to trace military movements, exposing sensitive information. Cell phones with GPS capabilities can also reveal troop locations and movements, potentially endangering soldiers and compromising missions.

Cyber Attacks and Cyber Espionage:

Cell phones provide an entry point for cyber attackers, who can exploit vulnerabilities to gain access to military networks and sensitive information. Unsecured Wi-Fi networks and public charging stations are common ways for attackers to intercept data or install malware. Outdated operating systems and inadequate security measures further increase the risk of cyber attacks.

Inconsistent Security Policies:

Different military organizations have varying policies regarding cell phone usage. Some ban cell phones entirely during deployments, while others allow limited use with restrictions. Inconsistent policies can create confusion and loopholes that adversaries can exploit.

Impact on Morale and Discipline:

Cell phones can boost soldiers' morale by keeping them connected with their families and friends. However, they can also be a distraction, impacting discipline and focus during critical missions. Additionally, soldiers may use cell phones to highlight poor conditions or share sensitive information, which can be detrimental to operational security.

Geopolitical Considerations:

The use of cell phones by soldiers can have geopolitical implications, especially when operating in hostile territories. Local telecom providers may be compromised by intelligence agencies, allowing them to track troop movements and identify individuals. This poses significant risks to both operational security and personal safety.

To mitigate these risks, military organizations employ various strategies, including banning or restricting cell phone usage, conducting security education, implementing robust cybersecurity measures, and using secure communication channels. The balance between maintaining connectivity and ensuring operational security is a constant challenge in the modern battlefield.

Cell phone policies for soldiers in different countries

Cell phone usage by soldiers is a highly contentious issue, with security risks and data leaks posing significant challenges. While some countries impose strict bans on personal cell phones for soldiers, others allow limited usage under specific conditions. Here is an overview of cell phone policies for soldiers in different countries:

United States

The US military's policies regarding cell phone usage by soldiers have evolved, with a growing recognition of the threat posed by the integration of cell phones into various aspects of daily life. Since 2018, the US has prohibited the GPS-enabled functioning of personal devices during deployments. However, the effectiveness of this ban has been questionable, as soldiers continue to use their devices. Decisions to prohibit devices altogether during deployments are made on a case-by-case basis, with recent newsworthy incidents involving the 82nd Airborne in the Middle East.

United Kingdom

The British Army has historically imposed stricter restrictions on cell phone usage by its soldiers. During deployments in Afghanistan, the British Army banned all soldiers from using their phones. However, there have been reports of potential security breaches due to smartphone usage, such as secrets being revealed about the UK's F-35B fighter jet aircraft via the dating app "Tinder." The UK military now allows smartphone usage but provides comprehensive briefings on how to avoid security risks.

China

The People's Liberation Army in China has adopted a more liberal approach. They allow soldiers to use smartphones on domestic bases but restrict their usage to specific locations and time frames. This policy change occurred after realizing that taxi-hailing apps used by soldiers were collecting location data around military installations.

Russia

Russia implemented a ban on smartphone and tablet usage by on-duty armed forces in 2019. Additionally, Russian military personnel are prohibited from sharing information and photos about their service to prevent shaping a biased assessment of the country's state policies.

Turkey

Turkey instituted a ban on smartphone usage by soldiers on base in 2015. More recently, the country blocked access to Twitter during a bombardment in Syria, demonstrating a tendency towards internet shutdowns and stricter control over communications.

South Korea

South Korea previously imposed a strict ban on mobile phones for conscripts during their two-year service, but this policy was partially relaxed in 2018. Conscripts are now allowed to use cell phones for an hour or two daily in barracks, with telecom providers enforcing the time limits.

Israel

The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) have a relatively liberal policy regarding cell phone usage during active service. This may be attributed to their soldiers remaining relatively close to home and using domestic service providers. Additionally, the small size of the country and the widespread conscription system mean that parents are often eager to stay connected with their children during their military service.

India

Indian soldiers stationed along the "Line of Actual Control" between Indian and Chinese-controlled territories in the Himalayas are forbidden from using Chinese apps like Weibo and WeChat.

Soldiers' cell phones and personal communication

Cell phones are notoriously insecure, with multiple communication protocols such as SMS, MMS, WiFi, Bluetooth, and GSM, each presenting its own set of security vulnerabilities. Apps often leak data due to poor design or a lack of updates, and spyware can access text messages, track calls, collect passwords, and activate microphones and cameras. This makes cell phones a potential gift to the enemy, as any sensitive information shared by soldiers can be intercepted.

The decision to allow or ban cell phones for soldiers seems to depend on the specific deployment and the military in question. For example, the British Army had imposed a categorical ban on cell phones for soldiers deployed in Afghanistan, while some US soldiers were able to use their cell phones in the same region. In another instance, the 82nd Airborne Division paratroopers deploying to the Middle East were instructed to leave behind their cell phones and other personal electronic devices to maintain operational security and protect against potential cyberattacks.

Different countries have varying policies regarding soldiers' cell phone usage. Turkey and Russia have banned smartphone use by soldiers on base and during duty, respectively. China has placed restrictions on when and where soldiers can use their smartphones, while India has banned the use of certain Chinese apps. South Korea previously banned cell phones for conscripts during their two-year service but has since relaxed this rule, allowing limited usage.

The use of cell phones by soldiers is a complex issue, balancing the need for security with the desire for personal communication. As technology advances and becomes more integrated into daily life, military policies will likely continue to evolve to address the challenges posed by cell phones and other personal electronic devices in conflict zones.

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