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doge accused of copying entire social security database to insecure cloud system: A whistleblower disclosure from a top official at the Social Security Administration (SSA) has raised serious concerns about the security of sensitive personal data. Chuck Borges, the SSA’s Chief Data Officer (CDO), has alleged that officials from DOGE, a controversial entity that has been scrutinized for its handling of Social Security records, have created a live copy of the entire Social Security database in an insecure cloud environment. This action reportedly circumvents established oversight protocols and poses a significant risk to the personal information of over 300 million Americans.

Key takeaways

Whistleblower claims DOGE officials copied the Social Security database to an insecure cloud.
Concerns raised about the security of personal data for over 300 million Americans.
Allegations point to violations of SSA protocols under the authority of CIO Aram Moghaddassi.

The allegations were detailed in a letter sent to members of Congress and the U.S. Office of Special Counsel by the Government Accountability Project, a nonprofit organization that advocates for whistleblowers. Borges stated that he became aware of these serious data security lapses through reports made to him, which suggest that DOGE officials, who are current SSA employees, have engaged in actions that jeopardize the integrity and confidentiality of Social Security data.

According to the letter, the live copy of the SSA’s database had not been disclosed prior to this whistleblower revelation, despite previous reports indicating that DOGE had sought and obtained access to Social Security records. The purpose of this access was purportedly to investigate potential fraud within the system. However, the implications of creating a live copy of such sensitive data are alarming, particularly as it raises questions about data security and compliance with federal regulations.

Background on DOGE

DOGE, which has been involved in various data-related initiatives, gained significant attention in recent years for its controversial practices regarding data access and usage. The organization has been under scrutiny for its attempts to leverage Social Security data in its operations, particularly in relation to fraud detection. The Supreme Court recently granted DOGE unfettered access to sensitive Social Security data, a decision that has sparked debates about privacy, data security, and the ethical implications of such access.

The recent whistleblower disclosure sheds light on potential overreach by DOGE, raising concerns that the organization may not be adhering to the necessary protocols established to protect sensitive information. The letter from Borges highlights that the actions taken by DOGE were carried out under the authority of SSA Chief Information Officer (CIO) Aram Moghaddassi, suggesting a possible failure in oversight at the highest levels of the SSA.

Security implications

The creation of a live copy of the Social Security database in a cloud environment raises numerous security concerns. Cloud systems, while offering flexibility and scalability, can also expose sensitive data to unauthorized access if not properly secured. The risks associated with storing personal information in an insecure cloud environment include potential data breaches, identity theft, and misuse of personal information.

Borges’ disclosure emphasizes that these actions could lead to significant consequences for American citizens, particularly those who rely on the SSA for their benefits. The potential for data misuse or unauthorized access to Social Security numbers could have far-reaching implications, affecting individuals’ financial security and personal privacy.

Legal and regulatory ramifications

The allegations against DOGE could result in legal and regulatory scrutiny, both for the organization itself and for the SSA as a whole. If it is determined that DOGE violated federal regulations governing the handling of sensitive data, the organization could face penalties or restrictions on its operations. Additionally, the SSA may need to review and potentially revise its policies and procedures to ensure that similar lapses do not occur in the future.

The whistleblower disclosure may also prompt congressional hearings or investigations into the practices of DOGE and the SSA’s oversight mechanisms. Lawmakers are likely to seek answers regarding the extent of data security lapses and the measures that are being taken to protect the personal information of American citizens.

Public response

The public reaction to these allegations has been one of concern and outrage, particularly among individuals who are aware of the sensitive nature of Social Security data. Privacy advocates have voiced their apprehension about the implications of storing such critical information in an insecure cloud environment, calling for greater transparency and accountability from both DOGE and the SSA.

Many individuals are now questioning the adequacy of the safeguards in place to protect their personal information, and there is a growing demand for stricter regulations governing the handling of Social Security data. As the situation unfolds, it is likely that public scrutiny will continue to mount, placing pressure on both DOGE and the SSA to address these concerns head-on.

Next steps

In light of the serious allegations raised by Borges, it is crucial for both DOGE and the SSA to take immediate action to address the concerns surrounding data security. This may involve conducting a thorough investigation into the practices of DOGE, implementing stronger oversight measures, and enhancing security protocols to safeguard sensitive information.

Additionally, the SSA may need to engage with external auditors or cybersecurity experts to assess the current state of its data security practices and identify areas for improvement. Transparency in these efforts will be essential to rebuilding public trust and ensuring that the personal information of American citizens is adequately protected.

As this situation develops, stakeholders will be closely monitoring the responses from both DOGE and the SSA. The outcome of this whistleblower disclosure could have significant implications for data security practices within federal agencies and set a precedent for how sensitive information is handled in the future.

In conclusion, the allegations against DOGE regarding the copying of the Social Security database to an insecure cloud environment raise critical questions about data security, oversight, and the protection of personal information. As more details emerge, it will be essential for both the SSA and DOGE to address these concerns transparently and effectively to safeguard the data of millions of Americans.

Source: https://arstechnica.com/tech-policy/2025/08/doge-accused-of-copying-entire-social-security-database-to-insecure-cloud-system/