Illustration: Dimona nuclear plant
Illustration: Dimona nuclear plantIsrael news photo: Flash 90

The nuclear facility in Dimona is using new technology to prevent information leaks, Walla news reports.

The technology jams internet access and camera use on cell phones, meaning workers cannot take pictures with their phones while on the job. In addition, passersby who come close to certain parts of the facility will find that they are unable to use their phones to take pictures in those spots.

Phones remain able to make and receive calls.

A security officer who spoke to Walla explained that the device is meant to ensure that potentially hostile third parties will not be able to hack workers’ phones. Smart phones are vulnerable to cyber attacks that can give the attacker access to personal information including photographs, the source explained.

The fear of cell phone vulnerability is not unique to nuclear plant administrators; many sensitive IDF installations also have strict rules regarding cell phone use.

In past years, harm has been done by workers who choose to share sensitive information. Nuclear spy Mordechai Vanunu famously leaked Israel’s nuclear secrets to the foreign press in the 1980s.

More recently, former IDF soldier Anat Kam revealed over 2,000 classified documents which she illegally copied during her service. Kam served two years in prison and was released earlier this week.