AP: Coke Promotion Prompts Security Measures

A Coke promotion called "Unexpected Summer" has the U.S. military up in arms. For the promotion, Coke outfitted 120 random cans with built-in GPS cell phones. Buyers who find one of the cans can use the embedded phone to call and register for prizes such as a new SUV, a chance to win $1 million and various Disney vacations. Once registered, Coke "search teams" will use the broadcasted GPS location to find the individual and surprise them on a random day within a specified three-week period. The military reportedly feels threatened by these phones, thinking they could be used as eavesdropping devices. Some military bases are banning Coke. Coke says it is impossible for the can to be an eavesdropping device.

"In the remote possibility a can were found in one of these areas, we'd make sure the can wasn't activated, try to return it to its original owner and ask that they activate it at home," said Wright-Patterson Air Force Base Spokeswoman Sue Murphy. "It's just another measure we have to take to keep everyone out here safe and secure."

Perhaps what the military really fears is that a Coke GPS can could be distributed to a secret installation. Perhaps Seal teams are in the habit of taking along refreshment. The military might have big guns but Coke isn't scared. Coca-Cola spokesman Mart Martin said of the can, "It cannot be an eavesdropping device. There's no reason to" stop the campaign.