Government security U.S. officials discard items from China trip over security concerns May 15, 2026 Share By SC Staff (Adobe Stock) As reported by TechCrunch, U.S. officials and reporters traveling with President Donald Trump from Beijing were required to discard certain items, including burner phones and lapel pins, before boarding Air Force One, raising security concerns. During a high-level meeting between U.S. officials, including Trump, and the Chinese government led by President Xi Jinping, U.S. personnel were instructed to leave behind items such as burner phones and gifted lapel pins. This action, reportedly due to security reasons, highlights ongoing tensions and mistrust between the two nations. While the specific reason for discarding the items was not officially explained, it is presumed to be a precautionary measure against potential espionage or surveillance. China has previously been accused by the U.S. and its allies of engaging in spying and cyberattacks. The practice of governments planting listening devices in gifted items is a known espionage tactic. Source: TechCrunch SC Staff Related Government security Virginia man found guilty of destroying government databases after being fired SC Staff May 11, 2026 The incident occurred on February 18, 2025, shortly after Sohaib Akhter and his twin brother, Muneeb Akhter, were fired by their employer, a company that serviced over 45 federal agencies. AI/ML Vibe coding has cybersecurity asking what AI can — and can’t — replace Laura French May 11, 2026 Cyber pros balance hype, skepticism and uncertainty as AI coding disrupts industry norms. Vulnerability Management Federal agencies ordered to patch Ivanti EPMM zero-day in 3 days Laura French May 8, 2026 The actively exploited flaw enables remote admin users to execute arbitrary code. Get daily email updates SC Media's daily must-read of the most current and pressing daily news Business Email By clicking the Subscribe button below, you agree to SC Media Terms of Use and Privacy Policy . Subscribe You can skip this ad in 5 seconds