United States: US defence secretary Pete Hegseth had a commercial internet connection, known as a dirty line, installed in his Pentagon office to bypass government security systems and access the encrypted Signal messaging app on a personal computer.
The move raised serious concerns within the Department of Defence, as it potentially exposed sensitive national security information to hacking or surveillance. The Pentagon typically routes internet access through two controlled systems: SiprNet, which handles classified material, and NiprNet, designated for unclassified government communication. By contrast, the dirty line enabled Hegseth to visit sites and use apps blocked on official networks.
People familiar with the setup said that at times, three computers were present at Hegseth’s desk: a government system for classified data, a second for sensitive but unclassified information, and a third—a personal computer connected to the dirty line. No personal devices are permitted in the defence secretary’s office due to the risk of spyware and electronic surveillance.
Reports indicate that Hegseth used the private line to operate Signal, a messaging app known for its end-to-end encryption, which he allegedly installed on his office desktop. Media reports revealed that Hegseth personally directed the installation of Signal in his workspace.
The defence secretary shared sensitive information such as details of strikes on Houthi rebel targets in Yemen on a private Signal group chat involving his wife, brother, lawyer, and nine other associates. Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell stated that, “We can confirm that the secretary has never used and does not currently use Signal on his government computer.” However, the claim did not address Signal usage on non-government equipment.
The developments echo Hegseth’s own criticism in 2016, when he condemned Hillary Clinton’s use of a private email server during her tenure as secretary of state. The revelations have sparked fresh scrutiny of Hegseth’s handling of classified communications, with critics warning that his personal use of encrypted apps and private networks has made him a potential espionage target.
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