Government workers sue over potentially illegal DOGE server connection

In a groundbreaking move that could have significant implications for privacy and cybersecurity, federal employees are suing the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) to disconnect a controversial server allegedly operated by associates of Elon Musk. This class action suit, highlighted in a motion obtained recently, contends that the connection of the new server to OPM systems not only violates federal law but also poses substantial risks to the personal data of government employees.

The OPM serves as the federal government’s central human resources department, guarding sensitive personal information regarding current and prospective employees. The lawsuit suggests that the disputed email server is harvesting data from these critical OPM data systems. Additionally, government agencies are mandated by the E-Government Act of 2002 to conduct privacy assessments prior to making significant alterations to IT systems. However, the motion asserts that such an assessment was not performed before the server’s installation, potentially leading to unauthorized access to crucial government data.

Concerns over oversight and security were further exacerbated last Friday when reports surfaced that senior officials at the OPM found themselves locked out of essential data systems, allegedly by Musk’s allies. An unnamed official expressed grave worries about their lack of visibility into the actions being taken with these systems, stating, “We have no visibility into what they are doing with the computer and data systems. This creates real cybersecurity and hacking implications.”

Amidst these developments, interim U.S. Attorney Ed Martin publicly supported Musk’s operations, stating, “We will pursue any and all legal action against anyone who impedes your work or threatens your people,” in reference to the Department of Government Efficiency, which Musk oversees. This promises a contentious legal battle, pitting federal employees against high-profile tech influencers.

Interestingly, the lawsuit against the OPM isn’t an isolated case. Reports indicate that connections related to Musk may extend into other government departments as well. There are claims that a former employee of Musk allegedly has direct access to systems within the U.S. Treasury Department, heightening fears of possible breaches in national security. This connection has drawn fire from a coalition of labor unions and retiree advocates who have recently filed a lawsuit against the Treasury for providing DOGE the means to access its systems without adequate oversight and security measures.

In light of these serious allegations, federal employees are raising alarms about the absence of transparency surrounding these technological integrations. The implications of unauthorized data access extend beyond mismanagement; they raise significant concerns over the integrity and confidentiality of vital government information. The legal actions currently underway could not only reshape the future of data privacy standards in government but also serve as a potential precedent in addressing the intersection of technology and public service administration.

This situation highlights a growing tension between private interests and public responsibilities, especially concerning high-profile figures like Musk and his influence over federal data systems. As this legal battle unfolds, it will undoubtedly attract widespread public attention and scrutiny regarding the safety and integrity of sensitive government data in an era increasingly dominated by tech innovations.