As the Trump administration continues to downsize the federal workforce, anxiety is mounting among government employees over potential surveillance by Elon Musk's 'government efficiency' team. Reports of DOGE representatives gaining access to agency computer systems have left many federal workers feeling uneasy.
Concerns about monitoring of emails, texts, and conversations have led some employees to take precautions such as turning off phones at home, avoiding online communication platforms, and even purchasing Faraday bags to block signals. The fear of being surveilled without their knowledge has prompted some to print out important records for safekeeping.
The uncertainty surrounding changes in monitoring practices under the current administration has fueled rumors among federal workers. Speculations of online chats being monitored and behaviors being scrutinized have altered the way employees interact and communicate.
Despite reassurances from the White House that surveillance is being conducted in compliance with federal law, many employees remain skeptical. The close ties between Musk's Department of Government Efficiency and the White House chief of staff have only added to the apprehension.
Instances of employees altering their behavior, such as refraining from using work computers for personal activities and being cautious about expressing dissenting views, highlight the pervasive sense of unease within government agencies.
From the Department of Education to the State Department, employees are grappling with suspicions of surveillance and questioning the integrity of their digital systems. The heightened vigilance among federal workers underscores the prevailing atmosphere of fear and paranoia.
As federal employees navigate this climate of uncertainty, some have resorted to offline communication methods and modified their online activities to avoid potential scrutiny. The pervasive sense of being watched has prompted individuals to exercise caution in their interactions and communications.
With the specter of surveillance looming large, government employees are treading carefully in their day-to-day operations, wary of potential monitoring and repercussions for their actions.
