How Pokémon Go Became the Go-To Geolocation Tool for National Security

In a twist that left many astounded, it turns out that Pokémon Go, the wildly popular augmented reality game, played an inadvertent role in national security concerns. During my time at the NSA, I witnessed firsthand the importance of vigilance and mindfulness in safeguarding sensitive information. Little did we know that our adversaries had been using the game to mark geo-locations of NSA satellites and big tech installations for years.

As someone who had this knowledge drilled into me, it was both shocking and concerning to discover that some Pokémon Go enthusiasts were unknowingly contributing to a far more significant purpose. I vividly remember the awkward conversations that took place when reporting, “No sir, it’s not just a game,” through our NSA reporting channels. It wasn’t until I shared this image of our collection satellite that the NSA understood. It was a moment when reality blurred with the virtual world, and our national security was at stake.

The revelation prompted swift action within the NSA. Pokémon Go was immediately banned from the agency’s campus and the surrounding parking areas to prevent any further compromise of sensitive information. It served as a stark reminder that even seemingly harmless activities can have unintended consequences in the world of espionage and national security. More so, it forced the NSA to examine how applications just like this may be used to exploit our critical mission.

This story underscores the ongoing need for vigilance and the ever-evolving nature of threats in the digital age. As we continue to navigate the complex landscape of national security, let us remain mindful of the potential risks posed by seemingly innocent pastimes and stay committed to safeguarding our nation’s interests.