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Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is facing a growing investigation after it was revealed that he used a “dirty” internet line in his Pentagon office to run the Signal messaging app on a personal computer, bypassing the military’s security protocols and potentially putting classified information at risk, according to sources and documents reviewed by The Associated Press.
The line, which connects directly to the public internet without Pentagon-level security or logging compliance, was installed at Hegseth’s request, two individuals with direct knowledge of the setup confirmed. Though such lines are occasionally used for specific open-source research, their use by a sitting defense secretary for unofficial communications is unprecedented.
Risk of Exposure and Lack of Oversight
While Hegseth has denied using Signal on a government computer, the app itself is unauthorized for use with sensitive or classified military information. Despite its end-to-end encryption, experts stress that Signal can be hacked, especially if accessed via insecure networks or devices.
“This type of unsecured connection lacks the Pentagon’s firewalls and monitoring systems, and therefore poses a serious national security risk,” said a senior U.S. defense official familiar with cybersecurity protocols.
Chats Involving Airstrike Details Spark Fallout
The controversy deepened after it was revealed that Hegseth shared sensitive details of a military airstrike in Yemen in multiple Signal group chats — one including his wife and brother, the other including top national security officials. Information allegedly shared included exact launch and bomb drop times — details typically marked as classified, especially before missions are complete.
Sources say these messages were shared before the pilots launched or safely returned, raising alarms within the defense community and prompting a probe by the Defense Department’s acting inspector general, initiated at the request of the Senate Armed Services Committee.
Tension Within the Pentagon and Political Reactions
The Pentagon’s internal rules bar the use of personal devices in secure spaces, yet sources confirm Hegseth often had three computers at his desk — including a personal laptop. Devices are typically stored in designated drawers to avoid potential espionage, a rule not always followed in Hegseth’s office.
As scrutiny grows, Hegseth has tightened his inner circle, dismissed advisers, and has been publicly supported by President Trump and Vice President JD Vance, who called concerns “fake news” and reaffirmed “100% confidence” in Hegseth.
Signal, Security, and Surveillance Threats
Cybersecurity experts and former intelligence officials warn that Signal’s encryption does not guarantee safety, especially when used on compromised or insecure systems.
“Foreign actors like Russia or China are highly motivated to intercept communications from senior U.S. officials,” said Theresa Payton, former White House CIO under President George W. Bush. “Every weak link becomes a potential attack vector.”
Earlier this year, the NSA and Google both issued alerts regarding increased foreign hacking attempts targeting Signal users.
What Comes Next?
As the inspector general’s investigation unfolds, questions remain about:
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Whether classified information was mishandled or exposed
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Who approved the dirty internet line
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How compliance and recordkeeping laws may have been violated
Congressional leaders from both parties are now demanding answers, with hearings expected as early as next month.
