The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) initiated a federal lawsuit on Monday against the U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA) and the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). The lawsuit alleges that these agencies have violated the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) by not responding to the ACLU’s requests and subsequent appeals for information regarding the Department of Government Efficiency’s (DOGE) attempts to access sensitive federal databases.
The ACLU’s pursuit of documents began in February, in response to reports indicating that DOGE operatives, associated with Elon Musk, sought access to extensive personal information of U.S. citizens. This information reportedly includes records from the U.S. Department of Treasury containing Social Security numbers, bank accounts, and business financial details.
According to reports from WIRED and other media outlets, DOGE has been trying to access and analyze sensitive data on federal employees, as well as American and immigrant populations in the U.S. The ACLU’s complaint emphasizes the significant concerns posed by DOGE’s access to such sensitive information, highlighting the potential “extraordinary harm” from any unauthorized use.
The ACLU has pushed the SSA to expedite the release of relevant public records related to DOGE’s activities, arguing that these documents are urgently needed to inform public discussion on pertinent government actions. The organization referenced a letter from Senator Mark Warner, which criticized the secrecy surrounding DOGE’s operations.
The SSA initially rejected the ACLU’s request and allegedly ignored subsequent appeals, actions which the ACLU argues are against FOIA regulations. Furthermore, the VA is accused of being even less responsive, reportedly acknowledging the ACLU’s request in February but subsequently halting communication.
Lauren Yu, an attorney representing the ACLU, stated that if DOGE were accessing private data, it would intrude into individuals’ private lives. She emphasized the importance of privacy safeguards mandated by Congress and the public’s right to know who accesses their private information.
The ACLU’s lawsuit also reflects public concern over DOGE’s efforts to implement artificial intelligence systems, which could lead to mass surveillance and misuse of personal information. Earlier in the month, it was reported that a DOGE operative was attempting to use AI at the VA, which manages benefits for about 10 million American veterans. Agency sources have expressed concerns over the AI implementation, citing procedural lapses that could risk veterans’ access to their benefits.
