A retired Army general is calling out the White House for questionable communication practices, spotlighting an alleged “bro” channel on the private messaging app Signal. This so-called “Signalgate” raises serious concerns about operational security (OpSec) at the highest levels of military command.
While OpSec lapses can happen, especially with newcomers, such mistakes are inexcusable when national security is at stake. The general argues that secure government systems exist for a reason—and apps like Signal, popular among privacy enthusiasts, aren’t appropriate for the robust safeguards required for military operations.
In the end, security protocols are only effective if those in charge choose to follow them. The question remains: Why risk it?