German Parliament Issues Security Alert Over Suspicious USB Devices Sent to MPs

The police of the German Parliament, known as the "Bundestag", have issued a security alert concerning suspicious "USB" storage devices that were sent to the offices of parliament members via mail.

Multiple parliamentary groups have confirmed receiving these packages. The Christian Democratic Union reported that several groups received these devices this week, along with cover letters written in English.

In light of these incidents, the Bundestag police have issued a stern warning stating: "Under no circumstances should these devices be connected to a computer." They have requested that any received devices be handed over immediately for examination and investigation.

SPD member Maria-Lisa Wöhlers described the situation as "concerning," confirming that investigations are ongoing.

This security warning follows precautionary measures taken by the parliamentary administration. The Alternative for Germany party reported that the Bundestag administration had sent a warning email to MPs, confirming that several members had received these suspicious devices.

It is important to note that the parliamentary administration had previously advised, through periodic emails, that such suspicious devices should either be handed over to the Bundestag administration or destroyed immediately upon receipt.

In related developments, Ina Latendorf, the executive director of the parliamentary group of the "Left" party, stated that her group had not received any reports from its members regarding the suspicious devices. She also mentioned that the group had received an official warning from the Bundestag administration last week and this week, advising against the use of any suspicious mail.