Judge Halts DOGE’s Access to Sensitive Data from Federal Agencies

The ruling blocks Elon Musk-linked DOGE from accessing personal information of 2 million plaintiffs, citing violations of the Privacy Act of 1974.

U.S. District Judge Deborah Boardman indefinitely barred DOGE from accessing sensitive personal data from the Departments of Education, Treasury, and OPM.
The injunction protects the personal information of approximately 2 million plaintiffs, including individuals and union members, involved in the lawsuit.
The judge found that DOGE’s actions likely violated the Privacy Act of 1974, which safeguards against unauthorized disclosure of personal information.
The lawsuit, led by the American Federation of Teachers and other unions, accuses the Trump administration of improperly granting DOGE access to federal systems.
Elon Musk, informally linked to DOGE’s cost-cutting efforts, has drawn scrutiny for his involvement in federal restructuring initiatives.