Controversial DOGE Move: Federal Payroll System Under Scrutiny

Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) opens a new chapter of controversy by obtaining access to a federal payroll system, sparking significant cybersecurity concerns.

Quick Takes

Elon Musk’s DOGE accessed the federal system for 276,000 employees.
Senior officials expressed cybersecurity and data exposure concerns.
Two DOGE workers were granted access post warnings on Saturday.
Administrative actions were taken against those opposing the access.

DOGE Gains Federal Access

The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), under Elon Musk’s leadership, received access to a federal payroll system managing payments for approximately 276,000 federal employees. This process took about two weeks of lobbying for the necessary clearance. However, two DOGE workers quickly received the needed credentials, sparking serious debate among senior staff about the risks and the rationale behind this access.

Concerns about possible breaches in data security and the potential for cyberattacks were voiced by senior officials. The capability to view sensitive information, including Social Security numbers, raised alarms. Coupled with the ability to influence hiring and firing processes, this access provides significant control over government personnel data.

Cybersecurity and Privacy Risks

Senior officials and IT staff highlighted significant cybersecurity risks. They objected due to the potential for exposing sensitive government employees’ personal information. Concerns centered on increased vulnerability to cybercrime. A memo underscored that all systems related to human resources, payroll, and credentialing should require prior training and clearance. Yet, in this scenario, these standard protocols appear overlooked, fostering a climate of worry among federal personnel management.

The move by DOGE is part of a broader strategy aimed at gaining access to various federal systems and databases. Some attempts even faced legal obstacles, highlighting the contentious nature of DOGE’s expanding influence in governmental operations. Despite this, a spokesperson reaffirmed their commitment: “We are working to execute the President’s directive to cut costs and make the government more efficient for the American people…”

DOGE demanded full access to a US Department of the Interior system that handles even the Supreme Court's paychecks. When top staff asked questions, they were put on leave. https://t.co/9xGlPdlWPv

— WIRED (@WIRED) March 31, 2025

Administrative Pushback

Tensions peaked when DOGE placed two dissenting IT officials on administrative leave, escalating the conflict. These actions coincided with a broader pattern of administrative changes within DOGE. Resistance among officials who view these maneuvers as overreaching points to internal frictions. The legal and ethical implications of this access grant, especially without thorough training or certification, remain key topics under discussion.

The lack of consensus within the Interior Department indicates a broader divide over how federal systems should be managed. Despite assurances of efficiency and financial prudence, concerns about diminished privacy and potential cybersecurity threats continue to mount.