Pentagon chief allegedly circumvented security to use Private messaging app

Department of Research, Studies and International News 28-04-2025

U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth is under scrutiny following reports that he arranged for an unsecured internet connection within his Pentagon office, reportedly to use the encrypted messaging platform Signal on his personal computer, sidestepping official cybersecurity protocols.

According to the Associated Press, two sources familiar with the setup revealed that Hegseth had a commercial internet line, commonly referred to in IT circles as a “dirty line”, installed in his workspace. These types of lines bypass the Department of Defense’s tightly regulated internet systems, allowing access to websites and services that are typically blocked on government networks.

Within the Pentagon, internet access is controlled through two principal systems: SiprNet, which handles classified communications, and NiprNet, used for non-classified government tasks. Neither of these is designed to support unvetted commercial connections, particularly those that might introduce vulnerabilities. The use of a separate, unsecured connection raises serious concerns about the exposure of sensitive defense-related information to external threats, including potential hacking or foreign surveillance.

At times, insiders reported seeing up to three different computers at Hegseth’s desk. These included a personal device, one for top-secret communications, and another designated for handling sensitive but unclassified defense material. Security regulations strictly limit the presence of personal electronic devices in the secretary’s office, given the risk of spyware and cyber espionage.

This incident is the latest in a series of revelations concerning Hegseth’s communication practices. The Washington Post recently disclosed that he instructed staff to install the Signal messaging app on a desktop computer located in his office. Signal, while known for its end-to-end encryption, is not approved for official use at the highest levels of the Department of Defense due to the lack of federal oversight.

The Pentagon’s chief spokesperson, Sean Parnell, responded to the controversy by stating that Hegseth “has never used and does not currently use Signal on his government-issued computer.” However, other reports contradict this claim. Earlier this week, The Guardian verified a New York Times investigation which revealed that Hegseth had shared sensitive operational plans involving military strikes against Houthi targets in Yemen. These messages were allegedly sent through a private Signal group he created, which included his wife, brother, personal attorney, and several associates.

This situation has sparked comparisons to past controversies involving the handling of classified material. Notably, in 2016, Hegseth himself criticized Hillary Clinton on Fox News for using a private email server during her tenure as Secretary of State, arguing that such behavior would warrant immediate termination and prosecution for any security professional. His current actions, now under public examination, are drawing accusations of hypocrisy.

As investigations continue, the questions surrounding Hegseth’s use of private communication tools and apparent disregard for established security norms are likely to intensify, adding pressure to an already embattled Pentagon leadership.