North Korea Smartphone Raises Surveillance Concerns, Screenshots Taken Every 5 Minutes

A smartphone reportedly smuggled out of North Korea has provided fresh insights into the country's strict digital surveillance system. According to a BBC investigation, the device automatically captures a screenshot every five minutes while the user is operating it. The captured images are stored in a hidden and encrypted folder without the user's knowledge.

The investigation reportedly found that users cannot delete these screenshots, raising serious concerns about privacy and digital monitoring. The system could potentially allow authorities to examine what citizens view on their phones and what they type, particularly during inspections. The findings highlight the extensive restrictions and surveillance reportedly imposed on digital devices in North Korea.