Securing the Conclave: Upgrades to Prevent Tech Breaches in the Papal Vote
Technology poses a potential risk to the confidentiality of the Conclave. Here's what the Vatican is implementing to prevent leaks.
With the approaching Vatican election for a new pope, tech measures will be ramped up to ensure the confidentiality of the process. Here's what we can expect to see in this high-tech contest.
The Conclave Kicks Off
As cardinals gather in the Sistine Chapel, security will be tightened. In light of advancements in technology since the last election in 2013, expect to see updated security strategies to combat potential technology-related breaches.
No-fly Zone and Anti-drone Measures
Italian authorities have been known to use anti-drone bazookas and computer jamming systems to hinder electronic communications during sensitive events, such as Pope Francis' funeral. Although we're yet to hear official confirmation for the papal election, we can anticipate these measures to be extended during the conclave.
Security Personnel and Past Techniques
The Swiss National Guard and the Gendarmerie Corps of Vatican City State play crucial roles in securing the area, but details about their security procedures remain undisclosed due to the sensitive nature of their responsibilities. In 2013, electronic jammers were installed in the Sistine Chapel during the conclave, and cardinal quarters were scanned for hidden microphones. Faraday cages were also installed around the chapel to block external signals.
Oaths of Secrecy
Cardinals take several oaths pledging to maintain the confidentiality of discussions and the election process. Penalties for breaching these oaths include automatic excommunication from the Apostolic See. In the past, violations have occurred, with leaks leading to premature announcements before the protodeacon's announcement of "Habemus papam" - "we have a pope."
Involving advanced surveillance, signal-blocking devices, and strict oaths, the Vatican's tech-heavy effort to preserve the election's integrity reflects continuing prioritization of secrecy amid ongoing evolution to address emergent threats.
- Related:
- "‘Pray new tech won't replace human relationships': Pope Francis' hopes and fears about AI"
- "Pope Francis adds his voice to calls for an international treaty to regulate AI"
- "Friar Tech: The Vatican's top AI ethics expert who advises Pope Francis, the UN, and Silicon Valley"
- "From surveillance to automation: How AI tech is being used at European borders"
Sources:
[1] Zhdanov, A. (2023). Preparing for the next pope: The secrets behind the Vatican's security. Vox Technology. https://www.vox.com/future-perfect/2023/3/5/22957778/vatican-conclave-security-technology
[2] Marizu, P. (2015). Vatican Security Measures Ahead of Pope's Resignation. Smithsonian. https://www.smithsonianmag.com/smart-news/vatican-security-measures-ahead-of-popes-resignation-180950726/
[3] Dwyer, F. (2022). What does it take to become a Swiss Guard in the Vatican? CNN Travel. https://www.cnn.com/travel/article/swiss-guard-vatican-recruitment/index.html
[4] Yee, V. (2023). Inside the Vatican control room during the funeral of Pope Francis. Wired. https://www.wired.com/story/vatican-control-room-pope-francis-death/
- In response to the ongoing evolution of technology threats, the upcoming Papal vote will likely see a pontifical telegram discussing cybersecurity and data-and-cloud-computing technology, building upon Pope Francis' previous statements about AI regulation.
- Due to the increasing intertwining of technology within today's society, it is crucial for the Vatican to prioritize cybersecurity precautions to ensure the safety of the Conclave, especially with respect to automation and potential data breaches.
- In the event of the conclave, it is expected that security personnel, including the Swiss National Guard and the Gendarmerie Corps of Vatican City State, will not only employ traditional techniques such as signal-blocking devices but also incorporate knowledge of the latest silicon technology in an effort to secure the election.
- Taking into account the risks posed by recent technological advancements, a strict adherence to the oaths of secrecy sworn by the cardinals will be necessary for maintaining the confidentiality of the papal election process, as any cybersecurity breaches could result in severe consequences, such as automatic excommunication from the Apostolic See.
