EU Issues ‘Burner’ Devices for US Travel

The European Commission is reportedly providing its staff with temporary “burner” phones and laptops for official trips to the United States, mirroring security protocols typically reserved for travel to countries with high electronic surveillance risks like China and Russia.

According to the Financial Times, this decision reflects growing concerns within the EU about potential espionage attempts by the U.S. authorities. An EU official stated that the commission is taking these precautions to protect against the risk of espionage, signaling a significant shift in the perceived trust between the EU and the U.S.

The move comes ahead of the World Bank Group and International Monetary Fund’s spring meetings in Washington D.C., where EU officials are expected to attend. Sources indicate that the European Commission has updated its guidelines, emphasizing the need for robust cybersecurity measures when visiting the U.S.

One source told the FT, “They are worried about the US getting into the commission systems,” highlighting the core concern driving the new policy.

This decision follows a series of incidents that have strained relations between the U.S. and Europe, including trade disputes and controversies surrounding immigration and border controls. Some European countries have already updated travel advisories for their citizens visiting the U.S., urging increased vigilance regarding visa and immigration requirements.

While the use of burner devices is considered standard practice in sensitive professions, its application to travel to the U.S. underscores the deteriorating relationship between Europe and the U.S. While some level of espionage among allies is often expected, the recommendation to use entirely new devices represents a notable escalation.

Luuk van Middelaar, director of the Brussels Institute for Geopolitics think tank, commented, “Washington is not Beijing or Moscow, but it is an adversary that is prone to use extra-legal methods to further its interests and power,” highlighting a growing sentiment of distrust.

A European Commission spokesperson, while not directly confirming the issuance of burner devices, acknowledged that updated travel recommendation factsheets have been provided to officials, reflecting increased global cybersecurity threats.

“We have recently updated several country specific traveling recommendation factsheets for officials. They reflect the latest changes in the way the commission communicates and the general increase of threats globally regarding cybersecurity,” the spokesperson stated.

The spokesperson also noted recommendations for senior officials to link their e-visas to an EU laissez-passer to emphasize the official nature of their visit and facilitate visa processes.

The Financial Times stands by its reporting, noting previous instances where the EU initially denied information that was later confirmed.