Netanyahu’s phone with taped camera sparks security debate online

A photograph showing Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu with red tape covering the rear camera of his mobile phone has gone viral on social media, sparking widespread debate.

In the viral image, Netanyahu can be seen standing near his black luxury vehicle in the underground parking area of the Knesset, Israel’s parliament in Jerusalem, while speaking on the phone.

The image clearly shows that the phone’s camera lens and sensors are covered with thick red tape.

Podcaster Mario Nawfal highlighted the image, questioning why Netanyahu had taped over his phone’s camera and what or whom he might be concerned about.

He remarked that if the Israeli prime minister feels the need to secure his phone, ordinary people should also take such risks seriously.

Nawfal added that if a head of government is taking such precautions, it raises important questions about what this means for everyday citizens.

Meanwhile, US-based outlet HypeFresh reported that the red sticker or tape seen on Netanyahu’s phone is not accidental. It is believed to be a specialised security sticker known as a tamper-evident seal, commonly used in high-security environments.

The purpose of such a sticker is to block the phone’s camera to prevent sensitive information from being photographed, whether intentionally or accidentally.

The report noted that smartphones contain cameras, microphones and other sensors that can potentially be exploited to record or leak classified material.

For this reason, photography is strictly prohibited in sensitive and restricted government areas, particularly where classified information is present.

Clash Report also commented on the image, stating that the use of such a sticker is likely a security measure aimed at preventing surveillance or unauthorised recording, especially in locations where sensitive information is stored.

Due to national security concerns, Israel enforces strict regulations on the use of certain smartphones and applications, including platforms such as TikTok.

Surveillance and espionage-related laws are taken extremely seriously in the country.

Tweet by Mario Nawfal