GAO audits DOGE for improper access of sensitive government data

In the United States, the Government Accountability Office (GAO) has been investigating the Department of Government Efficiency, commonly referred to as DOGE, since March 2025. This independent agency, working for Congress, was prompted to conduct this audit following alarming reports that DOGE had infiltrated systems across multiple federal agencies. The inquiry focuses particularly on DOGE’s access to sensitive data within various departments, including Labor, Education, Homeland Security, Health and Human Services, and Treasury. Initial reports suggested that untrained individuals within DOGE could access crucial databases, leading to concerns about potential misuse of personal information such as Social Security numbers and bank account details. The GAO’s investigation seeks to ensure that any access DOGE employees have to federal systems is justified and secure. This entails acquiring detailed information about incident reports related to possible data misuse. The audit specifically examines the protocols that federal agencies have in place regarding their data security and privacy laws. Both current and past access permissions are being reviewed to ascertain any instances of mismanagement or inappropriate data handling. Concerns have heightened since Jeremy Neal, a congressional representative, highlighted issues regarding workers’ confidential information being exposed. In the course of this audit, GAO has reached out to various federal agencies to obtain records detailing any systems and information to which USDS and DOGE personnel were granted access. Additionally, requests for documentation on security measures and risk assessments have been made. With reports surfacing about former DOGE employees having inappropriate access and making unauthorized changes to critical code, it prompted severe questions among lawmakers. They've focused on the risk to confidentiality and integrity within federal systems, stressing the importance of accountability. With the audit expected to conclude by the end of Spring 2025, federal leaders express hope that transparency can reassure the public about the integrity of these operations. Nevertheless, some congressional members continue advocating for further reviews of DOGE’s operations to ensure that safeguards against data breaches are in place and that accountability measures are strictly enforced across all agencies. Without oversight, the potential for misuse of sensitive government information remains a significant concern for both the public and officials alike.