Finnish Border Guard enhances surveillance with new radio monitoring powers against Russia

The Finnish Border Guard is set to enhance its surveillance capabilities near the border significantly, thanks to newly acquired powers for radio-based monitoring. Previously, the Border Guard lacked the authority to conduct such surveillance. This development will enable border guards to track mobile phone movements near the borders, both in Finland and Russia.

Commander Juho Vanhatalo of the Border Guard stated, “This is a significant new capability, alongside other monitoring methods.” Radio-based surveillance will allow the agency to detect devices transmitting radio signals in proximity to the border, including mobile phones and remotely operated drones. Vanhatalo emphasized the growing importance of observing various remote-controlled devices, as they are increasingly used globally for activities like smuggling.

Importantly, Vanhatalo clarified that the monitoring is not intended for eavesdropping or tracking the contents of radio communications, nor identifying device users; it is focused solely on locating devices that emit radio signals.

Furthermore, the Border Guard can now identify radio devices near the border on the Russian side, as signals can cross borders depending on their strength. This capability may be crucial if Russia deliberately allows illegal entries into Finland. Monitoring mobile phone activity within Russia could provide insights into the number of individuals attempting to cross into Finland.

Timo Hietalahti, head of mobile networks at Telia Finland, noted that mobile signals can be detected from distances of 30 to 40 kilometers under clear conditions. The Border Guard received the authority for radio-based monitoring in July through an amendment to the Border Guard Act, but decisions regarding specific surveillance equipment are still pending as they assess their needs and the procurement process. This equipment could be installed at land borders or be mobile, utilized in vehicles, aircraft, or patrol vessels.