Secure mapping starts with secure software

From infrastructure and urban planning to emergency response and environmental monitoring, photogrammetry is becoming an essential technique used for collecting accurate data that informs critical decisions and guides how resources are allocated. As reliance on geospatial data increases, so does the importance of choosing software that is secure and built for long-term trust.

In today's environment, procurement decisions go beyond performance and price. They now include deeper questions around software origin, data hosting, compliance, and the long-term risk associated with tools that may not align with European regulations.

Why software origin matters in today’s mapping industry

Recent updates to European trade regulations, including the 16th EU sanctions package, have introduced tighter controls on certain categories of technology. This includes software used in drone-based mapping and imaging, which may now require additional consideration during procurement due to its classification under updated export rules.

Photogrammetry software falls under this scope, and as a result, many institutions are reassessing their software portfolios to ensure they meet current and future compliance standards. While some tools on the market continue to perform well technically, questions have arisen around their origins, data handling, and associations.

Certain widely used photogrammetry software solutions in the drone mapping industry originate from Russia and continue to have a strong presence across European markets. While these tools are recognized for their technical capabilities, recent discussions in institutional and procurement circles have highlighted potential concerns about long-term reliability and geopolitical exposure. Investigative reporting has drawn attention to distribution networks that involve partnerships with Russian drone manufacturers and organizations connected to state-sponsored research.

German trade rules tighten—implications across Europe

In 2024, German authorities updated the Export List (Ausfuhrliste) to include certain software under item 0021 a) 1. Consequently, the export and import of this software to and from Russia are prohibited under §74 and §77 of the Foreign Trade and Payments Ordinance (AWV). This classification has significant implications for organizations aiming to comply with European trade laws and mitigate procurement risks associated with software of uncertain status.​

These concerns have prompted several public-sector organizations—including law enforcement bodies in Switzerland—to reconsider their software of choice, citing the need for long-term regulatory clarity and compliance.

As the geopolitical landscape continues to shift, more European countries may introduce similar regulations. These changes could affect how software is purchased and used across the continent, making it crucial for organizations to stay informed and act proactively. Institutions should consider these evolving regulations and security concerns as part of their risk assessments and software purchasing strategies.

The hidden costs of sticking with unsustainable software

Continuing to use software with uncertain compliance status or complex affiliations can introduce hidden costs: from reputational risk and legal ambiguity to difficulties in public procurement or cross-border collaboration. For organizations operating under strict governance, such as in infrastructure, public safety, or regulated industries, these risks can outweigh short-term convenience.

In jurisdictions like Germany, import restrictions under §77 AWV are legally binding. Continued use of software that falls under such controls can compromise compliance and expose organizations to regulatory scrutiny.

Compliance matters: what sets reliable software apart

When evaluating photogrammetry tools today, decision-makers are looking at:

• Data hosting location: where are your projects processed and stored? For example, in the EU, your PIX4Dcloud data is hosted on servers in Germany, supporting European data sovereignty and helping avoid regulatory issues related to cross-border data transfers and software origin
• Software origin: locally developed tools reduce the risk of sudden regulatory changes and are easier to vet under procurement frameworks.

- Regulatory compliance: tools that are BAFA-compliant and aligned with EU export controls help streamline purchasing, especially in public-sector or dual-use contexts.

• Support and transparency: is the vendor clear about who develops the software, where the data goes, and what laws it adheres to?

Developed in Switzerland, trusted worldwide

At Pix4D, our roots are in Switzerland, and our products are developed in Europe. We work with governments, infrastructure leaders, and engineering firms who need secure and dependable photogrammetry solutions.

Regulatory compliance begins with choosing trusted, transparent tools. Whether you're digitizing a city, analyzing utilities underground, or supporting public safety, it's important to use software that meets stringent security and compliance standards. This approach ensures legal alignment, supports operational integrity, and fosters long-term trust.