Sensitive Social security Data Exposed: Investigation reveals Potential Breach by DOGE
A recent senate investigation has uncovered alarming allegations against DOGE, a data analytics firm, concerning the mishandling of highly sensitive Social Security Management (SSA) data.Multiple whistleblowers claim DOGE uploaded a complete copy of the SSA’s database – containing facts on virtually every American – to an unsecured cloud environment. This potential breach raises serious questions about data security, government oversight, and the practices of private contractors handling sensitive citizen information.
The Allegations: A “Live Copy” in the Cloud
The core of the issue revolves around NUMIDENT, the SSA’s master file containing personally identifiable information (PII) for anyone who has ever been issued a Social Security number. This includes crucial data points like SSNs, dates and places of birth, work permit status, and parental information.
Whistleblowers, including former SSA Chief Data Officer Chuck Borges, allege that DOGE personnel, specifically 19-year-old Edward Coristine (previously terminated for data leakage at a prior employer), were granted access to move this highly sensitive data. The claim is that a “live copy” of NUMIDENT was uploaded to a cloud environment lacking adequate monitoring and security controls.
Internal Warnings Ignored: A high-Risk Assessment
Adding to the gravity of the situation, an internal risk assessment conducted by SSA employees on June 12, 2025, explicitly flagged the data move as “high risk.” The assessment estimated a 35-65% probability of “catastrophic impact” to SSA beneficiaries and programs should unauthorized access occur. Despite this clear warning, approval for the data transfer was allegedly granted by SSA Chief Information Officers Michael Russo and Aram Moghaddassi, both described as “DOGE-affiliated.”
This raises critical questions about potential conflicts of interest and whether proper protocols were followed in evaluating the risks associated with granting a private firm access to such sensitive data. The Senate Democratic staff report detailing the investigation can be found here: https://www.hsgac.senate.gov/wp-content/uploads/DOGE_REPORT_FINAL_7.pdf.
What Does This Mean for You?
The potential exposure of NUMIDENT data is deeply concerning. A breach of this magnitude could lead to:
* Identity Theft: SSNs and other PII are prime targets for identity thieves.
* Financial Fraud: Access to personal information can facilitate fraudulent claims for benefits.
* Privacy Violations: The unauthorized disclosure of sensitive data is a serious breach of privacy.
while the full extent of any actual data compromise remains under investigation, the allegations highlight the vulnerabilities inherent in entrusting sensitive government data to external contractors. You can learn more about protecting your Social Security number from identity theft at the SSA’s website: https://www.ssa.gov/identity-theft/.
Staying Informed: Ongoing Investigation & Next Steps
This is a developing story. The Senate investigation is ongoing, and further details are expected to emerge. it’s crucial to hold both DOGE and the SSA accountable for ensuring the security of sensitive citizen data. We will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as they become available. You can find previous reporting on this issue here: https://arstechnica.com/tech-policy/2025/08/doge-accused-of-copying-entire-social-security-database-to-insecure-cloud-system/.
Evergreen Insights: The Growing Risk of Data Breaches
the DOGE/SSA situation isn’t an isolated incident. Data breaches are becoming increasingly common, and the consequences are severe. Here are some timeless takeaways:
* Data Minimization: Organizations should only collect and retain the data they absolutely need.
* Strong Encryption: Protecting data both in transit and at rest with robust encryption is essential.
* Access Control: Limiting access to sensitive data to only authorized personnel is paramount.
* Regular Audits: conduct
