New, stricter rules for taking photographs and videos of certain objects and in designated zones came into effect in Poland this week. This ban is intended to counter espionage and explicitly includes recordings made for purely private purposes. In addition to government buildings and military installations, critical infrastructure such as bridges, tunnels, trains, post offices, power plants and substations, port facilities, and airports are also affected.
The new regulations provide for severe penalties for violations. In addition to heavy fines, violators face imprisonment. Furthermore, the devices used for recording, including mobile phones in cases of doubt, can be confiscated by the authorities. The affected areas and objects are marked with highly visible signs indicating the existing recording ban.
This measure is part of a broader amendment to the National Defense and Counter-Espionage Act and responds to increased security concerns in Europe. The law is believed to be aimed at better protecting sensitive infrastructure from potential espionage activities. The new rules could particularly affect travelers and citizens who unknowingly enter and record in the restricted zones.
Professional photographers and journalists may be able to apply for special permits to take photographs in the affected areas. The relevant authorities have 14 days to process such applications. It remains to be seen how the new regulations will affect everyday life and how consistently compliance with the ban will be enforced.