Recent reports have raised concerns about data privacy and the security of personal information within the U.S. government. The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), a newly established federal agency, has been granted access to extensive databases containing sensitive personal data. However, questions have emerged about whether this level of access complies with existing data privacy laws and federal guidelines.  

While many Americans support the evaluation of federal government spending, according to Newsweek, we will explore the compliance elements of the government efficiency actions exclusively. 

Extent of Data Access 

DOGE has been given access to multiple federal data systems, including: 

• Treasury Department Records – Containing tax, Social Security, and financial data. 
• Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Systems – Storing sensitive information about federal employees. 
• Department of Education Databases – Holding student loan and educational records. 

While the purpose of this access is stated to be improving efficiency and streamlining government operations, privacy advocates and legal experts are questioning whether these actions align with established data protection principles. 

Concerns Over Data Privacy Compliance 

Several key concerns have been raised regarding whether this access complies with federal data privacy guidelines: 

• Lack of Transparency – There has been little public disclosure about how personal data will be used, stored, or shared.
• Potential Privacy Act Violations – The Privacy Act of 1974 restricts how federal agencies collect, maintain, and share personal data, raising legal questions about DOGE’s authority. 
• Security Risks – Centralizing access to sensitive information increases the risk of data breaches and unauthorized use. 

Legal and Regulatory Challenges 

Several groups have filed lawsuits or raised objections, arguing that this level of data access may be inconsistent with federal privacy protections: 

• Labor Unions – Organizations representing federal employees have filed legal challenges, citing concerns about unauthorized access to personnel records. 
• State Attorneys General – A coalition of state officials has taken legal action to prevent DOGE from obtaining financial records, arguing it lacks proper oversight. 
• Privacy Advocates – Experts warn that without clear guidelines, the broad access granted to DOGE could lead to the misuse of personal data. 

Implications for Data Security 

Privacy experts highlight several risks associated with granting expansive access to personal data: 

• Increased Risk of Data Breaches – More centralized access can make government databases more attractive targets for cyberattacks. 
• Lack of Oversight Mechanisms – Without clear auditing and monitoring systems, it is difficult to ensure compliance with privacy laws. 
• Public Trust and Data Protection – Unauthorized or unclear use of personal data can erode public confidence in government data security practices. 

Political views aside, concerns surrounding DOGE’s access to federal databases highlight the need for strong privacy safeguards. While efficiency improvements are a valid objective, they must align with federal data protection laws and ensure the security of personal information. Greater transparency, oversight, and compliance with privacy regulations are necessary to maintain the integrity of personal data in government systems across the United States and beyond.