Treasury Department Grants DOGE Read-Only Access to Payment Systems

Tuesday, 4 February 2025, 23:31

Treasury confirms that DOGE will have 'read-only' access to federal payment systems amid concerns over privacy intrusions. This access is tied to a review intended to enhance operational efficiency. A longtime Treasury official's resignation followed the controversy surrounding this access attempt.
Thehill
Treasury Department Grants DOGE Read-Only Access to Payment Systems

Understanding Treasury's Decision on DOGE Access

The Treasury Department has recently announced that staff associated with Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) will be granted read-only access to sensitive federal payment system data. This decision is part of an operational efficiency review spearheaded by Treasury employee Tom Krause, described as a technology expert with a top-security clearance.

Operational Implications

The Fiscal Service, which processes approximately 90% of federal payments, encompasses around 1.2 billion transactions annually, including Social Security and Medicare payments. According to a Treasury official, this review has not caused any payment delays or suspensions.

Controversy Surrounding Access

The move has raised eyebrows, particularly after the resignation of longtime Treasury official David A. Lebryk. Reports suggest fears that DOGE's initiatives might be encroaching on governmental operations. Legal actions have been initiated over concerns about privacy breaches, with multiple advocacy groups claiming the intrusion is significant and unprecedented.

Community Response

  • The Public Citizen Litigation Group has filed a complaint arguing for the protection of individuals' information from corporate influences.
  • The complaint states that citizens should not be compelled to share their information with DOGE or Elon Musk.

This article was prepared using information from open sources in accordance with the principles of Ethical Policy. The editorial team is not responsible for absolute accuracy, as it relies on data from the sources referenced.


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