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2w ago

Hacker Breaches Government-Linked TeleMessage Platform, Exposing Security Flaws

The hack highlights vulnerabilities in unofficial messaging apps used for archiving sensitive government communications, raising encryption and compliance concerns.

U.S. National Security Advisor Mike Waltz walks to board Marine One at the White House in Washington, D.C., U.S., April 3, 2025. REUTERS/Carlos Barria/File Photo
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Overview

  • TeleMessage, a modified version of Signal used by the U.S. government for message archiving, was breached by a hacker exploiting backend vulnerabilities.
  • Stolen data includes messages from some users of the platform but does not include communications from cabinet officials like Mike Waltz or his direct contacts.
  • The breach revealed that archived chat logs are not fully end-to-end encrypted between the app and the storage destination, creating significant security risks.
  • Data tied to organizations such as U.S. Customs and Border Protection and financial institutions like Coinbase was reportedly included in the hacked material.
  • Signal has reiterated that it cannot guarantee the security of unofficial app versions, and TeleMessage’s corporate owner has yet to respond to requests for comment.