Military chiefs warn Army and RAF bases could suffer surge in visits by Pokemon Go fanatics hunting virtual monsters
The game’s digital characters have been reported at locations INSIDE secure military establishments
MILITARY chiefs have warned that Army and RAF bases could be targeted by Pokemon Go fanatics.
An urgent briefing was issued to all sites after it was reported the game’s digital characters had been reported at locations inside secure military establishments.
Senior officers fear fans of the game could try to break into the bases to hunt the game’s 142 virtual monsters.
In Pokemon Go fans use mobile devices to capture the characters, which appear on screen as if they were in the location with the player.
The briefing said security chiefs had “received reports that some Pokemon characters have been located within MoD establishments”.
It added: “Consequently there may be an increased risk of persons trying to gain unauthorised access.”
It said hunters congregating near bases could be mistaken for terrorists checkiing out sites for potential attacks.
It added: “You should ensure that your policing, security and guarding staffer is made aware of these issues, noting that the popularity of the Pokemon game is not confined to children.”
Nintendo’s smartphone game has become a global sensation.
Ministry of Defence officials said any Pokemon players who trespass on military sites will be committing a crime and will be reported to the police.
This is the latest in a line of Pokemon-Go safety and security issues.
Earlier this month NATO had to warn creature-crazy Pokemon GO players they risk being blown up if they venture near a site where live weapons are being used as part of a tactical exercise.
A couple tried to lure young boys into their home using Pokemon Go.
Even Ukrainian soldiers were found playing the game in the middle of a dangerous war zone.