In the wake of Pope Francis’s passing, the process of electing his successor, known as the conclave, is set to unfold under tight security measures reminiscent of previous gatherings yet adapted to contemporary technological challenges. The Vatican, which has a historical precedent for banning cellphones to ensure secrecy during these critical meetings, is once again faced with the need to protect the integrity of its electoral process. Authorities are implementing rigorous security protocols to uphold confidentiality, with severe penalties for breaches, including excommunication and imprisonment.
Unlike previous conclaves, the Vatican’s security forces, the Gendarmerie and the Pontifical Swiss Guard, are preparing to address an array of modern threats. By 2025, they will contend with sophisticated risks such as artificial intelligence, drones, and the pervasive influence of social media, all of which could potentially disrupt the electing process. As the conclave approaches, expected to occur approximately twenty days post the pontiff’s death, preparations are being meticulously crafted to accommodate the visiting cardinals tasked with selecting the future leader of the Catholic Church.
Security apparatuses designed to thwart unauthorized information transmission will be central to these preparations. The conclave venue will employ signal jammers to block communications between electronic devices, effectively transforming the area into a secure environment where surveillance attempts through audio or visual recording devices would be futile. Authorities will conduct thorough inspections of the premises prior to the conclave, searching for any hidden microphones or cameras, particularly focusing on the access of administrative staff and the cardinals.
To further enhance security, opaque film will be affixed to windows within the voting and resting quarters, blocking potential view from outside, including any attempts from satellite or drone surveillance. Cardinals will be prohibited from looking outside during deliberations, safeguarding against espionage techniques that could leverage modern imaging technology. With contemporary satellites capable of facial recognition from space, maintaining physical barriers becomes essential, as current technologies do not afford the capability to see through walls effectively.
The Vatican, standing as the smallest sovereign state at just 0.44 square kilometers, is heavily monitored by an extensive surveillance system. Previously featuring over 650 cameras connected to an underground control room, it is protected by both the Swiss Guard and the Gendarmerie. While the guard may present a historical image with traditional attire, they possess advanced weaponry and training to respond to security threats.
Once a new pope is elected, an influx of approximately 200,000 visitors is anticipated in Vatican City, further underscoring the need for robust security measures. The intricate planning and the deployment of state-of-the-art technology serve as a testament to the Vatican’s commitment to protecting its conclave’s sanctity amidst evolving technological threats.
This scenario exemplifies the types of adversary tactics and techniques categorized by the MITRE ATT&CK framework. Techniques such as initial access and persistence could be applicable, considering the potential for unauthorized electronic intrusions, while physical security measures aim to foil any attempts at privilege escalation through technological means. As the conclave approaches, the vigilance of security personnel remains paramount in maintaining the integrity and confidentiality of this pivotal process for the Catholic Church.
