Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has admitted to utilising a communication app, TeleMessage, which is a cloned version of popular messaging services like Signal and WhatsApp. Following a cyber incident, they have suspended its usage while an investigation takes place. The app is under scrutiny for concerning security flaws and might pose potential risks to national security.
Key Points
- CBP confirmed its use of the hacked TeleMessage app, which retains message archives for compliance.
- TeleMessage was disabled after a detected cyber incident, and its security is currently under investigation.
- TeleMessage’s app has been criticized for its lack of proper security measures.
- US Senator Ron Wyden has called for an investigation into the app’s security, highlighting its potential threat to national security.
- Despite its government use, the app is not approved under the Federal Risk and Authorisation Management Program (FedRAMP).
Why should I read this?
If you care about digital privacy and security—or just enjoy a good scandal—this article is a must-read! The revelation of CBP’s use of a dangerously insecure app highlights major flaws in how government agencies manage sensitive communications. Understanding this mess could save you from finding yourself on the wrong side of privacy breaches—or at least give you something deliciously juicy to discuss at dinner parties!