Where do you think the data that is sold on the dark web comes from? From data breaches. And most data breaches are caused by either the inadvertent or intentional acts of insiders.
Once your privacy is breached, this is not something that can be undone.
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On June 6, 2025, the U.S. Supreme Court, in a 6–3 decision, granted the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) broad access to sensitive data held by the Social Security Administration (SSA).
This includes Social Security numbers, medical and mental health records, financial information, and family court documents for millions of Americans
The Court's order temporarily lifts a prior injunction by U.S. District Judge Ellen Hollander, who had blocked DOGE's access due to potential violations of federal privacy laws.
Judge Hollander had emphasized that DOGE failed to justify its need for such expansive access and that allowing it could breach the Privacy Act of 1974 .
The three liberal justices—Ketanji Brown Jackson, Sonia Sotomayor, and Elena Kagan—dissented, expressing concerns over the risks to Americans' privacy.
Justice Jackson noted that granting DOGE "unfettered data access" before legal proceedings conclude poses "grave privacy risks for millions".
DOGE, established during President Trump's second term and previously led by Elon Musk, aims to reduce federal workforce and expenditures. However, its methods and access to sensitive data have sparked significant legal and ethical debates.
Critics argue that DOGE's actions may lead to misuse of personal information and lack adequate oversight
Given that the SSA collects data from individuals starting with their first qualifying job, this development affects all Americans, not just those nearing retirement or eligible for Medicare. The potential implications for privacy and data security are substantial, and ongoing legal challenges may further address these concerns.
Supreme Court Grants DOGE Access to Social Security Data Amid Privacy Concerns
reuters.com
US Supreme Court allows DOGE broad access to Social Security data
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apnews.com
Supreme Court allows DOGE team to access Social Security systems with data on millions of Americans
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timesofindia.indiatimes.com
Win for Trump administration: US Supreme Court allows DOGE to access social security data; transparency obligations limited
Today