Classified government facilities treat every wireless device as a potential leak, so phones, Wi-Fi, and smartwatches are often off limits. For people with diabetes, that turns essential tools like continuous glucose monitors and pumps into security considerations. In these environments, teams examine how each device communicates, what radios it uses, and whether it connects to any cloud systems. This is why standalone receivers, like Dexcom’s dedicated unit, are sometimes approved while phones are not.

From a risk standpoint, CGMs and pumps both rely on Bluetooth and constant communication, but the consequences of a breach are not the same. A tampered CGM may be inconvenient, while manipulated insulin delivery could be life threatening. Security researchers have been studying these issues for more than a decade, which has pushed companies and regulators to improve patching, disclosure, and general cyber hygiene. It is all part of the careful regulatory process that shapes how slowly or quickly diabetes tech moves. For users, basics like two factor authentication, strong passwords, and regular updates still make a real difference.

Secure workplaces add new challenges. Some pump controllers function too much like smartphones with cameras, SIM cards, or cloud syncing, which can block them from entering restricted areas. Limits on sensor pairing can also cause problems for people who need a phone, pump, and backup receiver to work together. Switching between PDMs and apps or managing updates can become a frustrating part of the routine.

We break all of this down with cyber security expert and long time T1D Dr. Josiah Dykstra, who spent nearly two decades inside NSA classified environments and manages his diabetes under some of the strictest tech rules in the country. We talk about how he evaluates device security, why he uses the Dexcom G7 with both a phone and standalone receiver, and what finally convinced him to start Omnipod 5 after years of hesitation. You can listen to the full conversation above or watch the video below to hear the full discussion in detail.

Disclaimer: Diabetech content is not medical advice—it’s for educational purposes only. Always consult with a physician before making changes to your healthcare.