Reports have surfaced revealing that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth utilized the Signal messaging app on a personal computer within his Pentagon office. This computer, however, was connected to an unsecured commercial internet line, informally known as a “dirty line.” Two sources confirmed this to ABC News, raising significant security concerns.
The use of a “dirty line” is noteworthy because it bypasses the Pentagon’s secure unclassified (NIPR) and classified (SIPR) networks. These commercial lines lack the robust firewall protections of the Defense Department’s systems, making them vulnerable to monitoring, especially if sensitive information is being transmitted. The line was reportedly installed at Hegseth’s request to facilitate his use of the Signal app on his personal device.
This revelation follows previous controversies surrounding Hegseth’s use of Signal. He recently vehemently denied leaking classified war plans regarding potential U.S. airstrikes in Yemen, attributing leaked information to former staff and accusing them of sabotaging the Trump administration’s agenda. He maintained that the information shared, both in a larger Signal group chat and a smaller, more personal group, was unclassified and for informal media coordination.
The Pentagon’s official response to the “dirty line” issue has been cautious. A spokesperson referred to an earlier statement from Sean Parnell, the Pentagon’s chief spokesperson, which stated that Hegseth had never used, and does not currently use, Signal on his government computer. This statement, however, does not address the use of Signal on a personal computer connected to a potentially insecure line within the Pentagon itself.
The use of personal devices and unsecured lines within the Pentagon raises questions about security protocols and the potential for breaches. While the specifics of Hegseth’s communications remain classified, the existence of this “dirty line” highlights potential vulnerabilities and underscores the ongoing debate about the appropriate use of personal communication technologies within highly secure government environments. The situation warrants further investigation to ensure the integrity and security of sensitive information.
