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Elon Musk’s DOGE is barred by a US prosecutor from accessing Americans ‘ personal Social Security information.
In a move seen by unions as a crucial check on the unelected billionaire’s powers, a federal judge on Thursday slapped a federal judge on the Department of Government Efficiency ( DOGE ), led by Elon Musk, on the right to access Americans ‘ personal Social Security data.
Expand employees are unable to access any records that contain personally identifying information, including social security numbers, medical histories, or finance details, according to District Judge Ellen Hollander’s ruling. The Social Security Administration ( SSA ) has the right to only share redacted or anonymized records with DOGE employees who have undergone background checks and training in privacy.
The American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees ( AFSCME) stated in a statement that” Today’s decision provides significant relief and is essential in halting DOGE’s unlawful and dangerous overreach.”
The organizations filed legal action after the ruling, alleging that SSA had given illegal DOGE employees access to data systems, putting at risk the protection of millions of Americans. SSA’s CEO, Michelle King, officially resigned in February due to DOGE’s alleged request to access recipient data.
Additionally, the judge directed DOGE personnel to remove any unredacted Social Security information that had been gathered since January when Donald Trump took office. Court approval will be required for any potential exposure to personally identifiable information, and general statements like” seek for fraud or waste” won’t suffice.
DOGE, a contentious initiative under the leadership of Donald Trump to reduce government spending that is deemed ineffective or inconsistent with Trump-era policies, has come under fire for its vague legal status and appointed position.
