As DOGE teams plug into federal networks, cybersecurity risks could be huge, experts say

Summary: Experts are raising grave concerns over the unregulated access that Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has to federal networks, including sensitive systems at the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) and the Department of Treasury. This access could expose critical data and create vulnerabilities, potentially leading to a significant security breach. Cybersecurity professionals emphasize that existing protocols are being disregarded, increasing the risk of exploitation by foreign adversaries.

Affected: U.S. Federal Government, Office of Personnel Management (OPM), Department of Treasury

Keypoints :

• Experts warn DOGE’s access could lead to significant breaches, risking sensitive data including background checks and national security information.
• The ad-hoc agency’s personnel reportedly lack the necessary government experience to navigate complex cybersecurity controls.
• Unauthorized access could create severe vulnerabilities, making it easier for foreign adversaries to infiltrate federal systems and steal sensitive information.
• The situation echoes the 2015 OPM breach, which compromised data for over 22 million individuals and highlights the risks associated with inadequate cybersecurity measures.