If you become a prisoner of war, what information are you allowed to provide when questioned?

When questioned as a prisoner of war, you are permitted to provide only your name, rank, service number, and date of birth. This guideline is rooted in the Geneva Conventions, which protect the rights of prisoners of war. By limiting the information to these specific details, the approach aims to safeguard not only the individual soldier but also the broader interests of military operations and national security.

Providing additional information, such as details about your mission or any orders from superior officers, could compromise the safety of fellow soldiers and the success of future operations. Similarly, sharing personal information like a social security number could pose a risk of identity theft or exploitation. Thus, adhering strictly to the specified categories of information is imperative for maintaining operational security and ensuring compliance with international law.