An investigation by Le Monde has raised concerns over security for world leaders, revealing that bodyguards’ use of the fitness app Strava could expose sensitive locations and schedules of figures such as U.S. President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump. The app, designed for tracking workouts, inadvertently allows public access to GPS data that can reveal critical information.
The report found that security personnel for Biden, Trump, French President Emmanuel Macron, and Russian President Vladimir Putin had active Strava profiles, which could be used to track their movements and identify locations of official visits. In one instance, an agent’s Strava data traced a San Francisco hotel where Biden was staying for a meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping.
U.S. Secret Service representatives assured the public that they are aware of the issue, stating that any personnel using Strava has been informed of the risks. Although Macron’s office claims local security measures make threats minimal, they issued a reminder to agents to avoid fitness tracking apps that reveal real-time data.
Cybersecurity experts have called for enhanced data regulation. Louisiana State University professor Ibrahim Baggili stressed that accessible data could aid in tracking and even criminal targeting, especially in the case of high-profile figures. The ease with which locations can be pinpointed from fitness apps signals a gap in digital security policies, which experts argue must be addressed immediately to protect public safety.
The Le Monde report brings attention to an overlooked security risk, highlighting the necessity for improved app data protection and prompting government agencies to reassess technology guidelines for personnel involved in sensitive duties.