Wildberries Bans Camera Phones in Warehouses Citing Security Risks

Russian e-commerce giant Wildberries has implemented a new policy prohibiting employees from carrying smartphones equipped with cameras into its warehouses. The company stated that this measure is intended to prevent the filming of drone attacks and related events, which it argues could compromise security and endanger staff.

According to reports citing Russian media, employees received notifications about the ban, which allows the use of basic mobile phones without cameras. Wildberries claims that in the past, employees using smartphones in warehouses have recorded drone activity and its consequences, disseminating these videos. The company asserts that such actions pose a threat to employee safety and could reveal the locations of Russia's air defense systems.

This latest restriction builds upon previous security measures. Wildberries had previously banned all personal items from being brought into the workplace. However, following drone strikes that impacted the company's logistics centers, this policy was partially relaxed to permit essential personal items like identification and keys.

The company warned that unauthorized filming of drone attacks and their aftermath could lead to administrative or criminal liability for employees. This move reflects heightened security concerns within Russia following a series of drone incidents, including a fire at the Belgorod State Technological University and at Wildberries warehouses in the Vladimir region.