Hegseth used unsecured internet line for Signal, risking sensitive data

Multiple sources revealed that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth had an unsecured commercial internet connection, known as a 'dirty' line, set up in his Pentagon office to use the Signal messaging app on a personal computer. This bypassed standard Pentagon security protocols, potentially exposing sensitive defense information to hacking or surveillance and possibly lacking required federal recordkeeping compliance. The use of such lines is not unprecedented at the Pentagon, as they allow users to access information otherwise blocked and obscure their identity from Department of Defense IP addresses. Hegseth's use of Signal became controversial after he posted sensitive details about a planned military airstrike in group chats that included both family members and top national security officials. The incident has raised concerns about the security of communications and the safeguarding of classified information within the Pentagon. Pentagon officials have acknowledged the existence of the unsecured line but have not commented publicly on potential repercussions.