Privacy Breach: JFK Files Release Under Trump Admin Leaks Social Security Numbers
The Trump administration's release of over 60,000 pages of unredacted JFK assassination documents has exposed sensitive personal information of hundreds of individuals, including Social Security numbers and private details of former congressional staffers, intelligence analysts, and federal contractors.
Trump speaking at campaign podium
On March 18, 2025, officials failed to properly redact documents before declassification, revealing Social Security numbers, addresses, and employment histories of living Americans. The breach has created immediate concerns about identity theft and security risks.
JFK portrait head shot
Notable affected individuals include:
- Joseph diGenova (former Trump campaign lawyer)
- Former intelligence officers
- Church Committee staffers from the 1970s
- Various government contractors
The National Archives and Social Security Administration have begun assisting affected individuals, though no formal identity theft protection plan has been announced. Critics argue the administration rushed the release without proper safeguards.
Protective Steps for Affected Individuals:
- Monitor credit reports
- Freeze credit with major bureaus
- Watch for phishing scams
- Consider identity theft protection services
Legal experts suggest affected individuals may have grounds for damage claims. The incident could lead to stricter regulations on handling classified releases containing private citizen data.
The breach highlights the ongoing tension between government transparency and personal privacy protection. While the DOJ hasn't commented, the incident has sparked debate about the proper handling of sensitive historical documents and the need for thorough review processes before declassification.