Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth set up an unsecured internet connection in his office, bypassing Pentagon security protocols to use the Signal messaging app on a personal computer, according to two sources familiar with the situation. This unsecured connection, known as a "dirty" internet line, connects directly to the public internet and lacks the security filters of the Pentagon's secured networks. It raises concerns about potential risks to sensitive defense information from hacking or surveillance.

Such lines are typically used to access information or websites that may be blocked by official networks, with the key benefit being that the user’s activity is masked, making it difficult to trace back to the Pentagon’s network. However, they can expose users to security threats and may not comply with federal recordkeeping requirements.

Hegseth used the connection to access Signal, an app that has sparked controversy after he shared details about a military airstrike in chats that included both military officials and his family. Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell stated that Hegseth's communications systems are classified but emphasized that Signal has never been used on his government computer.

This new revelation adds to the ongoing scrutiny Hegseth faces regarding his handling of sensitive information, with both Democrats and Republicans raising concerns. Hegseth has faced internal turmoil, including firings and reshuffling of his team, but has received support from President Trump and other administration officials, who blame leaks from disgruntled employees.

The Pentagon has secure communication systems like the Non-classified Internet Protocol Router Network and the Secure Internet Protocol Router Network, which are designed for handling sensitive information. Hegseth’s use of unsecured devices in his office, which violates security protocols, is also under investigation by the Defense Department's acting inspector general.

Signal, though encrypted, is not authorized for classified communications, and its use for sensitive government discussions is risky, as it can be hacked. The National Security Agency has warned about foreign threats targeting Signal users, further raising concerns about the security of the information Hegseth shared in his chats.