British MPs have been warned that posting details of planned visits on social media could put them at risk of attack. They were also told to assume that on trips abroad they might be targeted by “hostile” intelligence agencies. Advice is being given this week on safety and security measures they can take while away from Parliament.
An updated security manual for MPs specifically warns about the perils of social media including Facebook, Twitter, Snapchat, WhatsApp and LinkedIn. “Posting some information could put your personal safety at risk,” it states. “For example your address, phone number, details of schedules … could be used to target you for attacks.” It adds: “You ought to assume that intelligence officers from your host country can, and may try to, gain access to your communications.” MPs are advised to consider not taking their mobile phone into places where sensitive matters are being discussed. “Even when turned off mobile devices are never truly off,” says the manual. “It is possible to remotely turn on the mic and record conversations.”
The guidance covers security when MPs are visiting their constituencies, at home, in the office, attending events or travelling. It also includes advice on dealing with suspicious packages, stalkers and armed attacks. Members were told that “vigilance” is their best defence against threats to cause them embarrassment, inconvenience, distress and physical injury — or to endanger their life. Cyber security remains a “problem” in Parliament, with fears that the computers of MPs and staff are vulnerable to attack by hackers from China, Russia and other countries.
