Recent allegations have brought to light serious concerns regarding the data security practices of DOGE, a government contractor involved in handling sensitive federal information. According to a report by Senate Democratic staff, multiple whistleblowers claim that DOGE uploaded a highly confidential Social Security Administration (SSA) database to an unsecured cloud environment, raising questions about oversight and data protection measures.

Unmonitored Cloud Storage of Critical Data

The investigation uncovered that DOGE officials may have created a live copy of the entire Social Security database—known as NUMIDENT—which contains personal details such as Social Security numbers, dates of birth, work permits, and parental information for every American citizen. This data was reportedly stored in a cloud environment without proper monitoring or oversight, potentially exposing millions of individuals to privacy risks.

Suspicious Activities at Government Sites

As part of the probe, a site visit was conducted at the General Services Administration (GSA), where investigators observed areas that appeared to be intentionally concealed from view, including doors and windows covered with trash bags. Such actions have fueled concerns over transparency and security protocols within DOGE operations.

Whistleblower Claims and Past Incidents

One of the whistleblowers, Chuck Borges, who previously served as SSA Chief Data Officer, accused DOGE personnel of circumventing oversight by creating a live, unmonitored copy of SSA data. Borges also revealed that Edward Coristine, a 19-year-old DOGE staffer dismissed for leaking company data to a competitor, was among those granted permissions to move highly sensitive information into unsecured cloud environments. The allegations suggest a pattern of risky data management practices within the organization.

Implications for Data Privacy and Security

The disclosures raise serious concerns about federal data security, especially given the nature of the information involved. Experts emphasize the importance of strict oversight when handling personal data of U.S. citizens and advocate for comprehensive audits of DOGE’s data management protocols to prevent potential breaches.

For further information on federal data security standards and best practices, consult resources such as the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) or review the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) cybersecurity frameworks.

Ethan Cole

I'm Ethan Cole, a tech journalist with a passion for uncovering the stories behind innovation. I write about emerging technologies, startups, and the digital trends shaping our future. Read me on x.com