The ACLU has sounded the alarm on DOGE’s unchecked control over critical federal databases, warning that such access could be both illegal and unconstitutional.
ACLU Challenges DOGE’s Access to Sensitive Government Data
The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) has expressed serious concerns about Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) seizing control of key federal computer systems. These systems contain sensitive personnel data, raising alarm bells over potential violations of federal law.
DOGE has reportedly infiltrated multiple agencies responsible for managing nearly two million federal employee records. Additionally, the task force has gained influence over offices responsible for IT and software services across the government. The ACLU warns that any unauthorized access or misuse of such data could breach federal privacy laws.
Legal Implications of DOGE’s Actions
According to the ACLU, unauthorized retrieval or exploitation of personal and financial data may violate the Privacy Act and the Federal Information Security Modernization Act. These laws strictly prohibit unauthorized access to government personnel records.
In a letter addressed to congressional oversight committees, ACLU attorneys highlighted DOGE’s access to Treasury Department systems. These systems handle essential federal payments, including Social Security benefits, tax refunds, and employee salaries. The ACLU fears that DOGE’s involvement grants them access to millions of Social Security numbers, bank accounts, and private business financial data.
Potential for Abuse and Privacy Risks
The ACLU’s letter stresses that such vital financial systems should be managed by trained civil servants with years of expertise in handling sensitive information. However, DOGE has reportedly placed young, inexperienced engineers in control, raising concerns about potential misuse and data breaches.
“Access to—and abuse of—this information could harm millions of people,” the ACLU stated. The organization argues that DOGE’s influence may allow it to restrict government payments based on ideological alignment, setting a dangerous precedent.
ACLU Demands Transparency and Accountability
To hold DOGE accountable, the ACLU has filed Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests to obtain communications records of DOGE personnel. They are also seeking documents related to the task force’s plans for deploying artificial intelligence across federal agencies.
This move comes amid growing concerns regarding the role of AI in government operations. Notably, the ACLU wants details on any measures taken to comply with laws safeguarding financial and medical information, including the Health Information Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).
AI and Government Surveillance
Recent reports indicate that DOGE operatives at the General Services Administration (GSA) have been pushing for the rapid deployment of a homegrown AI chatbot called “GSAi.” This chatbot was initially tested under a pilot program using Google’s Gemini AI but was later customized to meet DOGE’s broader objectives.
The ACLU is concerned that the chatbot may facilitate additional surveillance and data access without proper privacy safeguards. It remains unclear whether the GSA has conducted a legally required privacy assessment before launching the AI system.
Congress Urged to Act
The ACLU has called on key congressional committees to investigate DOGE’s operations. They believe the unchecked expansion of DOGE’s authority could undermine critical programs such as Social Security, small business funding, and family support initiatives.
Nathan Freed Wessler, deputy director of ACLU’s Speech, Privacy, and Technology Project, emphasized the urgency of the situation: “The American people deserve to know if their private financial, medical, and personal records are being illegally accessed, analyzed, or weaponized. There’s every indication that DOGE has breached the government’s most protected databases without regard for privacy safeguards.”
With mounting pressure, lawmakers must now determine whether DOGE’s actions warrant further legal scrutiny and whether new policies are needed to prevent future overreach.
Looking Ahead
As the debate over privacy and government oversight intensifies, concerns surrounding AI’s role in governance continue to grow. This comes at a time when AI-driven initiatives are expanding across various sectors, including autonomous driving and data security. For instance, US lawmakers are pushing for a ban on DeepSeek over national security concerns, highlighting broader anxieties about AI’s influence on critical infrastructure.
As investigations unfold, the public awaits clarity on how far DOGE’s reach extends—and whether legal action will be taken to curb its power.
