The Department of Defense has acknowledged that adversaries are using commercial location data to track U.S. military personnel in active conflict zones. This revelation highlights the potential misuse of information gathered from personal devices, such as smartphones and computers.
In a letter shared by Senator Ron Wyden, U.S. Central Command (USCENTCOM) confirmed awareness of hostile entities exploiting purchased location data to monitor U.S. servicemembers. The letter stated, "USCENTCOM has received multiple threat reports concerning adversary exploitation of commercial location data to target or surveil US personnel in theater."
While the letter lacked specific examples, it underscores a growing concern about the implications of data privacy in military operations. A spokesperson for the Department of Defense has not yet commented on the matter.
Commercial location data is typically harvested from mobile devices through online advertising. This data is then acquired by brokers who sell it on the open market. Governments, including the U.S., have previously purchased this information without warrants. In light of these developments, the FBI has advised consumers to utilize ad blockers to reduce the data collected by various applications and websites.
Senator Wyden has emphasized the need to recognize the adtech industry as a potential national security risk, advocating for more stringent regulations and oversight.
This situation raises important questions about privacy and security in the digital age, particularly for those serving in the military. As technology continues to evolve, the intersection of data privacy and national security will likely become an increasingly critical area of focus, shaping policies and practices in the future.