Swiss army personnel they should stop using WhatsApp, Signal and Telegram, and instead use a national messaging app, even for private conversations.
In your place, they should now use the Threema messenger, developed in the country, both in official and private communications, including chats between military personnel and their families.
The instruction contains a explicit prohibition of other applications: “All other services are no longer allowed”. However, it is unclear whether there will be penalties for failing to use WhatsApp or other foreign messengers.
Apparently, the military will also cover the cost of downloading the app: 4 Swiss francs (3.80 euros). The military will also pay the annual fees charged by the company.
The recommendations apply to all military personnel, including new recruits and those returning to update their training, military spokesman Daniel Reist told AFP. In Switzerland, Military service is mandatory for all 19-year-old male citizens deemed fit for service.
The measure is due to concern about data securitythe army spokesman told local media. Threema is subject to Swiss law and complies with the EU General Data Protection Regulation, unlike foreign apps.
Whatsapp s Signal They are protected by the CLOUD Act in the United States, which allows US authorities to access US app operators’ data even if it is stored outside the country. The United States may also require companies to disclose user information through a legal request.
Telegram You may also be the subject of an order as long as you serve US customers.
As the Threema company is based in Switzerland, it is not subject to the CLOUD Act like American companies.