Hegseth bypasses Pentagon security with unsecured internet line

Experts warn such lines expose users to potential hacking, surveillance, violate federal recordkeeping requirements

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US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth had an unsecured internet line installed in his Pentagon office to access the encrypted messaging app Signal on a personal computer, bypassing government cybersecurity protocols, two officials familiar with the matter told the Associated Press.

The so-called “dirty” line directly connected to the public internet, sidestepping the Pentagon’s secure systems like the Non-classified Internet Protocol Router Network (NIPRNet) and Secure Internet Protocol Router Network (SIPRNet).

Experts warn that such lines expose users to potential hacking and surveillance and may violate federal recordkeeping requirements.

The connection was reportedly used so Hegseth could use Signal more conveniently, including for chats in which he allegedly shared sensitive operational details about US airstrikes in Yemen.

These messages, according to sources, included launch times and bomb drop information — data that would typically be classified.

While Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell confirmed Hegseth has not used Signal on a government device, he declined to comment on specific communication setups, citing classification.

Hegseth has denied leaking classified information, saying he never shared war plans.

The Pentagon’s inspector general is investigating Hegseth’s communications after bipartisan concern from the Senate Armed Services Committee.

Hegseth has recently dismissed multiple advisors and drawn scrutiny over his handling of sensitive military operations.

The controversy has drawn comparisons to past incidents, including Hillary Clinton’s use of a private email server — which Hegseth himself harshly criticized in 2016.

The Trump administration continues to defend Hegseth, with Vice President JD Vance stating, “I have 100% confidence in the secretary.”

The potential breach comes amid broader concerns from US intelligence agencies about foreign actors targeting encrypted apps like Signal to access government communications.