In a recent development concerning Pentagon security protocols, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has come under scrutiny for using an unsecured internet connection in his office to access the Signal messaging app through a personal computer. Two individuals with knowledge of the situation revealed that this “dirty” internet line, which lacks the typical security measures of Pentagon connections, presents significant risks of hacking and surveillance.
This revelation adds to the ongoing concerns about Hegseth’s use of unclassified communication platforms and the vulnerability of sensitive defense information. While such internet lines are used by other Pentagon offices for specific monitoring purposes, they expose users to potential cyber threats and may not fulfill federal recordkeeping requirements.
Hegseth reportedly established this setup to access Signal, particularly after communicating sensitive details about a military operation through the app. Despite these concerns, Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell stated that Hegseth has not used Signal on his official government computer.
The disclosure comes amid a period of turbulence within the Department of Defense, as the Secretary has recently dismissed several advisors and faced bipartisan criticism for his management of classified material. Meanwhile, President Trump and other high-ranking officials have stood by Hegseth, attributing the leaks to discontented employees.
In the Pentagon, communications can occur over secure networks like the Non-classified Internet Protocol Router Network, the Secure Internet Protocol Router Network, and the Joint Worldwide Intelligence Communications System, each designed to handle varying levels of sensitive information. Despite these options, Hegseth chose to use an unsecured line for personal communications.
Prohibited from having electronic devices in such a critical office space due to espionage concerns, this setup was deemed risky. Furthermore, using Signal, an app not approved for sensitive or classified information, has raised eyebrows. It is encrypted but still not immune to hacking, and senior officials, especially from adversary nations, often target such communications.
Amid these issues, the Defense Department’s acting inspector general is investigating Hegseth’s use of Signal, following requests from the Senate Armed Services Committee. While Hegseth disputes claims of sharing war plans or classified material, the details he posted, such as launch times, were indeed sensitive and potentially dangerous.