Hegseth had an unsecured internet line set up in his office to connect to Signal, AP sources say

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth reportedly had an unsecured internet line installed in his Pentagon office to use the Signal messaging app on a personal computer. This "dirty internet line" bypasses the Pentagon's security protocols, potentially exposing sensitive information to hacking and surveillance. While other Pentagon offices have used such lines for monitoring blocked websites, a key advantage is masking the user's identity. However, this also carries significant security risks and may lack federal recordkeeping compliance. Hegseth's use of Signal, an unapproved app for sensitive information, has drawn scrutiny after he allegedly shared details about a military airstrike in group chats, some including his wife and brother, and others with national security officials. Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell stated that Hegseth does not use Signal on his government computer, calling his communications methods classified. This incident is the latest controversy surrounding Hegseth, who has also dismissed advisers and faced questions about his handling of information. The Pentagon offers secure communication channels like NIPRNet, SIPRNet, and JWICS for different levels of sensitive data. Despite denials of posting classified information, officials believe the details shared, such as exact launch and bomb drop times, were classified and could have endangered service members. An investigation into Hegseth's Signal use is underway by the Defense Department's acting inspector general.