Government Accountability Office Blocked From Verifying Data Security in DOGE Operations

The GAO was unable to complete its review of whether the Department of Government Efficiency properly secured sensitive information across six federal agencies due to withheld records and refused cooperation. Two agencies—the SEC and NOAA—explicitly challenged the GAO's authority to investigate, while others failed to provide system access logs and security compliance documentation. The watchdog concluded Congress and the public lack assurance that appropriate controls were implemented to protect government systems and data.

The GAO's inability to complete its audit stems from systematic refusal by multiple agencies to cooperate. The Securities and Exchange Commission and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration directly challenged the watchdog's legal standing to investigate, while other departments cited litigation concerns, privacy protections, and administrative burden as justifications for withholding documentation. Four agencies confirmed DOGE personnel accessed over 23 systems handling sensitive functions like contract management and personnel records, yet auditors lacked sufficient records to verify the complete scope of those permissions or confirm whether access controls functioned properly.

The obstruction extends across a 19-month review period, during which the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau characterized the inquiry as a "fishing expedition." Notably, CFPB granted DOGE staff elevated access to human resources systems and Microsoft administrative tools, while NOAA permitted a detailee to modify website content, yet auditors could not independently verify what actions were actually taken or whether security protocols were followed.