Estonia’s Defence Forces are pushing back against proposed legal changes that would limit their ability to examine civilians’ smartphones and other smart devices. The Ministry of Justice has drafted new legislation aiming to narrow the scope of permitted checks on private electronics. Currently, the military possesses the authority to search such devices under certain circumstances, a power they wish to maintain. Officials argue this access is crucial for national security, particularly in light of evolving threats. The proposed changes seek to strengthen privacy protections for citizens. The Defence Forces contend that restricting their access would hinder their ability to effectively respond to potential security risks and investigate incidents. The debate highlights a tension between national security concerns and individual privacy rights in the digital age.