March 31, 2007:
Keeping secrets is becoming more
difficult as electronic, and especially wireless, devices grow in popularity. A
solution of sorts has arrived in the form of a paint containing tiny metal
fragments. Apply a coat of this paint to a room, or the inside of a truck body
or cargo container used for intelligence work, and electronic data does not get
out. Fabric, incorporating the same signal blocking material, is also
available, so you can seal a tent from electronic leaks.
In places like Iraq and Afghanistan, where
intelligence and headquarters operations are often in buildings, the EM-SEC
(named after the manufacturer) paint helps secrets from getting out. The paint
also blocks cell phone signals, making it attractive for meeting rooms and
barracks (where one incoming cell phone call can wake up a whole bunch of
people.)