A security expert raises alarms over Vice President JD Vance's continued use of smart technology that could compromise national security.
According to Daily Mail, an espionage expert has issued an urgent warning about the significant counterintelligence risks posed by Vance's Apple Watch usage, citing him as a priority target for hostile intelligence services.
The warning came from the Instagram account Watches of Espionage, which specializes in analyzing timepieces' roles in espionage operations. The account emphasized that despite the lifestyle benefits of Apple Watches and similarly connected wearables, they present substantial security vulnerabilities, especially for high-ranking politicians targeted by foreign intelligence services.
The espionage specialist advised Vance to switch to analog alternatives from manufacturers like Breitling, Sangin Instruments, and Marathon Watches. These traditional timepieces offer similar functionality without the cybersecurity risks associated with smart devices. The expert clarified that this recommendation was nonpartisan and would apply to any vice president regardless of political affiliation.
Many followers of the Watches of Espionage account expressed concern about the Secret Service allowing Vance to continue wearing the device. Some speculated whether the vice president might be using a specially modified version with enhanced security features, though this remains unconfirmed.
The expert's warning referenced "advanced persistent threats" (APTs), which are sophisticated, long-term cyber attacks typically conducted by state-sponsored actors. Such threats pose particular risks to connected devices like smartwatches, which can potentially be compromised to gather sensitive information.
The security discussion emerges as Vance's political profile continues to rise following his inauguration as vice president two weeks ago. Political observers increasingly view him as a leading contender for the 2028 presidential race. In a recent Fox News interview with Maria Bartiromo, Vance addressed speculation about his presidential ambitions.
The Instagram account shared their concerns, stating:
Dear Mr. Vice President, Please Take Off Your Apple Watch. Despite its many lifestyle benefits, the Apple Watch and other connected wearables pose significant counterintelligence risks, especially for politicians who are priority targets for hostile intelligence services and APTs.
Recent polling data from J.L. Partners shows strong support for Vance among Republican voters, with 38 percent backing him for the 2028 nomination. This places him well ahead of other potential candidates, including Florida Governor Ron DeSantis at 15 percent and entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy at 6 percent.
Apple Watch security has become an increasingly important topic in political circles. While the devices employ sophisticated 256-bit AES encryption, experts maintain they remain vulnerable to sophisticated hacking attempts. This vulnerability becomes particularly concerning for high-ranking government officials who regularly handle sensitive information.
The debate surrounding Vance's smartwatch usage highlights broader concerns about cybersecurity in government. As connected devices become more prevalent, the challenge of balancing modern convenience with national security continues to grow more complex.
These concerns are especially relevant given Vance's position as vice president and his potential future presidential aspirations. Security experts emphasize the importance of implementing strict protocols to protect sensitive information.
Vice President JD Vance faces mounting pressure to address security concerns regarding his Apple Watch usage as experts continue to highlight potential risks to national security. The warning from Watches of Espionage has sparked broader discussions about the use of connected devices by high-ranking government officials. As Vance's political profile continues to rise, particularly with strong polling numbers for 2028, decisions about his personal technology usage could have significant implications for both his current role and future political aspirations.
