A modified version of the encrypted messaging app Signal—used by former Trump National Security Adviser Mike Waltz—has reportedly been compromised, raising alarms over the security of U.S. government communications. According to tech outlet 404 Media, a hacker exploited vulnerabilities in TeleMessage, a Signal-like platform, which was allegedly used by Waltz during a recent cabinet meeting, as shown in a Reuters photo.
Waltz was dismissed from his post on Thursday, following backlash over his creation of a Signal group used to share real-time updates on U.S. military operations in Yemen. The controversy intensified when a journalist was mistakenly added to the group.
404 Media reported that the unnamed hacker breached the backend systems of TeleMessage—currently being rebranded as Capture Mobile—and accessed messages from various users. While no communications from Waltz or other Trump officials were among the intercepted data, the incident raises serious concerns about the use of unofficial and potentially vulnerable platforms in sensitive government operations.
TeleMessage is designed to log decrypted messages for regulatory compliance, but such functionality—if not properly secured—can expose sensitive data. The company, along with its parent firm Smarsh, has yet to comment on the breach. Neither Waltz nor the White House responded to media inquiries.
A spokesperson from Signal reaffirmed that the privacy and security of unofficial versions of its app cannot be guaranteed.
