FBI Investigating Hack That May Have Exposed Agents' Medical Records

The FBI says it is investigating claims that its main job application portal was compromised, in a breach that may have exposed highly sensitive medical information about thousands of special agents.

The cybercriminal group ShinyHunters, known for data theft and extortion, claims to have taken data from FBIJobs.gov. The stolen material reportedly includes blood and urine test results and fitness-for-duty medical examinations. The group also shared a list of roughly 5,000 people it says are FBI officials.

What the FBI says

The bureau confirmed it is aware of the alleged compromise affecting employee data. It said it is working to determine whether the breach came through a third-party vendor or its own systems, and is coordinating with its service providers to reduce the risk to employees.

The hack was first reported by the technology outlet 404 Media. BBC News later said its journalists had received samples of the stolen data.

Why it matters

FBIJobs.gov has served since 2017 as the primary portal for people applying to become agents or support staff, meaning it may hold personal details about applicants as well as current employees. Exposure of agents' identities and medical histories could create security risks for personnel.

The FBI has previously warned that ShinyHunters uses aggressive harassment tactics against its victims, including threatening messages and swatting.

Sources: ABC News