Allegations of Data Theft by Former DOGE Employee Under Investigation

A former employee of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), associated with Elon Musk, is under investigation for allegedly stealing sensitive personal data from the U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). According to a whistleblower complaint reported by The Washington Post, the individual claimed to have accessed two restricted databases, known as the "Numident" and the "Master Death File," which could contain information on over 500 million living and deceased Americans. The complaint alleges that the employee stored this data on a thumb drive with plans to use it at a new job with a government contractor.

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The whistleblower complaint indicates that the former DOGE employee, whose identity remains undisclosed, boasted of having "God-level" access to SSA systems. He reportedly informed colleagues about possessing the databases and expressed intentions to "sanitize" the data before transferring it to his new employer's systems. The databases in question include sensitive information such as Social Security numbers, birth dates, citizenship status, and parental details.

Former DOGE Employee Accused of Stealing Social Security Data

The SSA's Office of Inspector General has confirmed that it is conducting an investigation into these allegations. This inquiry follows previous concerns regarding DOGE's access to SSA data, including allegations that DOGE personnel uploaded sensitive information to an unsecured cloud server and improperly accessed Social Security numbers for political advocacy purposes. Congressman Robert Garcia, Ranking Member of the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, has expanded the investigation into DOGE-related data leaks, emphasizing the need for transparency and accountability regarding the handling of Americans' sensitive information.

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Critics, including Senator Ron Wyden and Rep. Robert Garcia, have expressed alarm over the potential misuse of personal data and the implications of such a breach. Wyden described the incident as one of the largest known data breaches in American history, while Garcia highlighted the dangers posed by the former employee's alleged ability to manipulate SSA data. Advocacy groups, such as Public Citizen, have called for immediate accountability and criminal investigations into the matter, citing fears that the Trump administration's oversight of DOGE created conditions ripe for abuse.

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The Social Security Administration has publicly refuted the allegations made by the whistleblower, stating that all named parties, including the former employee, have denied any wrongdoing. The agency is cooperating with the ongoing investigation and has been urged to provide detailed briefings to congressional committees regarding the extent of DOGE's access to sensitive data.

The Independent

As the investigation unfolds, the SSA and other federal agencies are expected to review access logs and data handling practices to determine the validity of the allegations. The outcome may lead to significant policy changes regarding data security and oversight within federal agencies, particularly concerning the handling of sensitive personal information.

Report Says DOGE Employee Stole Social Security Data

• “Not only has an ex-DOGE bro been accused of running around with the social security information of every American on a flash drive, he also may have the ability to edit and manipulate data at the Social Security Administration at will.” — Rep. Robert Garcia, Ranking Member of the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform

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• “we need a full congressional investigation and answers!” — Congressman John Larson (D-Conn.)

Common Dreams

The unfolding situation raises critical questions about data security protocols and the integrity of personal information management within government agencies.

Report Says DOGE Employee Stole Social Security Data