DOGE accused of copying entire Social Security database to insecure cloud system

A whistleblower from the Social Security Administration (SSA) has raised alarming concerns regarding the handling of sensitive Social Security data by DOGE officials. According to the whistleblower, Chuck Borges, who serves as the SSA's Chief Data Officer, DOGE allegedly created a 'live copy' of the nation's Social Security information in a cloud environment that bypasses necessary oversight. The Government Accountability Project, which is representing Borges, disclosed in a letter to Congress and the U.S. Office of Special Counsel that these actions may pose significant risks to the security of Social Security data for over 300 million Americans. Reports indicate that DOGE sought access to SSA records in an effort to investigate potential fraud. However, the existence of a live copy of the SSA's database had not been previously revealed. The letter emphasizes that DOGE's actions were carried out under the authority of SSA Chief Information Officer, Aram Moghaddassi, and potentially violate established SSA protocols. If this database copy were to be compromised, the consequences could be dire, exposing sensitive information including names, birth dates, and Social Security numbers of citizens. The NUMIDENT database, which contains all data submitted for U.S. Social Security card applications, could leave many Americans vulnerable to identity theft and essential services disruptions. In an official response, the SSA denied any claims of storing data in an insecure manner and stated that it is not aware of any data breaches.