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19h ago

Hack of TeleMessage App Exposes Metadata from Over 60 U.S. Government Officials

The breach of the government-used messaging platform highlights counterintelligence risks and sparks investigations across federal agencies.

U.S. National Security Advisor Mike Waltz checks his mobile phone while attending a cabinet meeting held by U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House in Washington, D.C., U.S., April 30, 2025. REUTERS/Evelyn Hockstein
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Overview

  • A hacker accessed TeleMessage, a messaging platform used by over 60 U.S. government officials, exposing metadata and some message contents.
  • The leaked data, reviewed by Reuters, included communications from disaster responders, customs officials, diplomats, and Secret Service members.
  • While no classified content was identified, experts warn that the metadata alone poses significant counterintelligence risks by revealing communication patterns.
  • The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) has advised discontinuing TeleMessage, which has been suspended since May 5.
  • Federal agencies, including Customs and Border Protection, are investigating the breach, while FEMA reported no evidence of compromise to its data.