Hamas hostages' families are relying on phone pings just to find proof of life. Right now, hundreds of victims are believed to have been kidnapped by the terrorist group.
The Israeli flag is place close to a wall plastered with images of Israeli hostages snatched by the Palestinian militant group Hamas last week in a surprise attack into Israel, outside the Ministry of Defense in Tel Aviv on October 16, 2023.
As the Palestinian militant organization spread fear across the world, their victims' families are doing everything they can just to know if their loved ones are still alive.
However, experts explained that relying on phone rings for proof of life may not be the best thing they can do. Here's why.
Should Hamas Hostages' Families Rely on Phone Pings for Proof of Life?
According to The Wired's latest report, phone pings are not conclusive proof of life. Yes, pings from smartphones can help triangulate a device.
This means that a smartphone can be located based on the signals it sends to nearby cell phone towers whenever users make calls, send messages, or access the internet.
However, phone pings can still be sent even without the owner using them. Experts said that as long as a smartphone has power, apps working in the background can send pings, allowing cell phone towers to indicate their location.
They added that once smartphones are separated from their owners, they can provide faulty data. Previously, an anonymous individual said that they were able to locate their loved one's smartphone thanks to the assistance of Gaza authorities.
Unfortunately, the Hamas victim's body was later found inside Israel. Although this is the case, phone pings can still bring hope since they can give more information on where victims are possibly located, if they were able to cross the border, or if they are already far from Gaza.
Read Also: Palestinian Family Decides to Stay Together Despite Israeli Military's Order To Leave Northern Gaza
Hamas Uses Their Victims' Own Phones To Spread Terror
A man holds a banner displaying photos of kidnapped Israelis at a rally in Times Square demanding Hamas free Israeli hostages on October 19, 2023 in New York City. Family members of hostages held by Hamas were joined by politicians, members of the Israeli community and supporters as they demanded the release
One of the scariest things that Israeli families can experience is receiving a photo or video of their loved ones being tortured or killed by the Hamas terrorist group.
What's tragic about this situation is that some terrorists are even using their victims' smartphones to contact friends, families, and loved ones.
The New York Times reported that these terrorists are hijacking the smartphones of their victims to post videos, images, and even audio recordings of their inhumane operations.
They are spreading their acts of terror on WhatsApp, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and other social media platforms.
Related Article: Israel Expands Ground Operation in Gaza, Military Officials Say
