US President Donald Trump had to spend much of his China visit without access to his personal cellphone, as White House officials enforced strict digital security measures during the high-level summit in Beijing.
Like other travellers visiting China, Trump was advised not to use personal electronic devices because of cybersecurity concerns and the risk of hacking. A White House official confirmed that the president would not be using his personal phone during the visit, per a report by New York Post.
The restrictions marked a noticeable change for Trump, who is known for frequently using his phone to post on social media, speak to reporters and make personal calls.
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Posts on his Truth Social account were limited during the summit and were reportedly handled by staff members working from Washington DC while following Beijing hours.
Burner phones, Faraday bags and tight security
The security arrangements extended beyond the president. White House staff members were also instructed to avoid personal devices and instead use burner phones and temporary email accounts throughout the two-day summit.
These "clean" devices were stripped of most regular apps and functions to minimise the amount of sensitive information that could be exposed if compromised, per a report by New York Post.
The US State Department has long warned travellers that "there is no expectation of privacy on mobile or other networks in China", advising visitors to avoid carrying devices containing personal data.
High-level security protections
To further secure communications, personal devices belonging to White House staff were stored aboard Air Force One in Faraday bags, which block signals including GPS, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and RFID. Officials said the devices would only be returned once staff reboarded the aircraft.
Air Force One itself is treated as American territory and operates with high-level security protections. The aircraft is equipped to function as a flying Sensitive Compartmented Information Facility (SCIF), allowing secure discussions even while overseas.
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During the summit, Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping discussed issues including the Iran war, Taiwan, trade and technology. The visit also included ceremonial events such as a state banquet and a musical performance by a Chinese band that played Trump's campaign favourite, "YMCA".
