US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth's extensive use of the encrypted messaging app Signal for official Pentagon business has come under scrutiny, with reports revealing that he engaged in at least a dozen separate chats involving sensitive topics.
Hegseth's use of Signal, a nongovernmental messaging service, to discuss military operations, media appearances, foreign travel, and personnel matters has raised concerns over security and the potential mishandling of sensitive information, Caliber.Az reports citing foreign media.
Hegseth, a former Fox News host, was said to have set up many of the chats himself, using unsecured lines from both his Pentagon office and personal phone. In one notable instance, he instructed aides via Signal to inform foreign governments about an ongoing military operation. Other discussions involved details on Pentagon programs, security matters, and national security debates, including personnel decisions and sensitive military actions.
One of the most alarming revelations was that Hegseth’s military aide, Marine Colonel Ricky Buria, had access to Hegseth’s personal phone and posted critical information about US military actions on Signal, including details about an impending strike on Houthi militants in Yemen. The information was shared with a group that included Hegseth’s family members and personal lawyer, according to sources familiar with the matter.
The Pentagon’s use of non-governmental messaging apps like Signal is controversial, as it could expose sensitive information to the wrong hands. "The use of personal phones and commercial apps introduces unnecessary risk," said Marc Polymeropoulos, a former senior US intelligence officer. "Signal is considered unclassified by the government for a reason."
A 2023 Pentagon directive restricts the use of apps like Signal for official business, specifically for sensitive but unclassified information. It remains unclear whether Signal has been officially authorized for use within the Pentagon since the directive was issued.
The use of Signal for Pentagon business also raises concerns about potential violations of record-keeping laws, as some messages sent by Hegseth may not have been properly recorded.
The investigation into Hegseth’s use of Signal, led by acting Pentagon Inspector General Steven Stebbins, is ongoing, and its findings could lead to further scrutiny of Hegseth’s conduct in office.
By Vafa Guliyeva
Source: caliber.az
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