SAEDNEWS: A cybersecurity expert, referring to past experiences and developments on the ground in recent wars, emphasized that publishing images without security analysis—especially from sensitive sites and military operations—can lead to the disclosure of classified information and pose a threat to national security.
According to Saednews, Mojtaba Mansouri, stated: “Two decades ago, images of the then-President of Iran inspecting Atomic Energy Organization facilities were published in the media. The images were so detailed that not only the type of equipment and internal structure of the facility were visible, but also model numbers, equipment brands, cable layouts, and even the placement of centrifuges could be seen.”
He continued: “A few years later, in an unprecedented move, a highly sophisticated virus was discovered that targeted only nuclear facilities. Cybersecurity analysts concluded that the virus had been designed to disrupt Iran’s nuclear program and that its technical information had most likely been extracted from these published images and public data.”
Mansouri added: “In wartime conditions, the presence of individuals with smartphones can be as dangerous as the entry of a spy. Recording and publishing images from military operation zones—such as equipment, stationed units, armored vehicle routes, or even the condition of the wounded—can reveal the exact location of forces, help identify surroundings via image intelligence (IMINT), map out movement routes, allow enemies to launch precise attacks with missiles or drones, and enable psychological operations or negative propaganda against domestic forces.”
The cybersecurity expert emphasized: “In recent wars, like those in Syria, Yemen, and even the conflict in Ukraine, we have repeatedly seen that the publication of a simple image on social media has led to the destruction of entire units or the exposure of operations.”
The author of "Chain of Trust: The Power of Blockchain" noted that while journalists are on the frontlines of informing the public, they must distinguish between intentional disclosure and the unintended release of sensitive information. “Sometimes, a photo showing a device, a map on a wall, or an open file on a monitor can facilitate thousands of hours of enemy intelligence work,” he said.
Regarding what should be done, Mansouri stressed: “Media outlets must thoroughly review photos and videos before publishing. Important details—such as maps, equipment, license plates, and computer screens—should be blurred or censored. Coordination with relevant authorities before publishing sensitive images is essential, and training journalists and media professionals to recognize sensitive information is critically important.”
He also pointed out what must be avoided: “Live broadcasts from military operations or classified site visits should never happen. The use of personal drones or high-zoom cameras without permission must be strictly prohibited.”
The cybersecurity expert emphasized: “Publishing photos of military or industrial equipment without a proper security assessment should not occur. Disregarding 'No Photography' warnings in restricted areas must be taken seriously by media outlets.”
He concluded: “In a world where data is a weapon, every image can be a hidden bomb. Whether we are journalists or ordinary citizens, we must act responsibly—especially in times of war. Before pressing the send button, we must ask ourselves: Does this image fuel the enemy?”
