GOP Senator Warns Of ‘Unprecedented Hack’ of FBI Files, Calls For Accountability

Sen. Eric Schmitt (R-MO) is raising alarms over what he describes as an “unprecedented hack” of sensitive FBI information, exposing months of call and text logs between agents and confidential informants. The breach, reported last Thursday, is believed to have stemmed from a prior cyberattack on AT&T’s public safety network, compromising all FBI devices using the service.

In a letter to outgoing FBI Director Christopher Wray, Schmitt criticized the bureau’s security failures, warning that the exposure could discourage informants from cooperating in the future. He demanded a full investigation and significant operational reforms at the FBI.

Schmitt also condemned the Biden administration for its mishandling of national security, citing past incidents like the Mar-a-Lago raid and the administration’s targeting of Catholics as “extremists.” He urged swift Senate confirmation of Kash Patel, who has pledged to address government misconduct and “lawfare” tactics.

This breach adds to growing concerns over cybersecurity lapses within federal agencies. AT&T previously confirmed that hackers accessed data from over 109 million accounts in 2022, including FBI communication logs. While content wasn’t exposed, the metadata could reveal the identities of covert sources, posing a severe risk to national security.

The FBI acknowledged its duty to protect informants and stated it is working to mitigate the breach’s impact. However, critics like Schmitt argue these actions fall short, emphasizing the need for leadership that prioritizes accountability and transparency.