The Trump administration is confronted with new digital secrecy issues following the arrest of former National Security Advisor Mike Waltz for using an unofficial version of the encrypted messaging app Signal. A photo by Reuters captures Mike Waltz reading messages from senior Trump officials during a cabinet meeting.

The screen reads a PIN prompt that is different from the official Signal app, creating a leak controversy just weeks after Trump had him removed from office. The controversy intensifies examination into the administration’s management of secure communications, particularly with its ongoing use of Signal for archiving high-level conversations.

Unofficial Signal App Raises Red Flags

The Signal app on Mike Waltz’s phone asked him to confirm a “TM SGNL PIN.” This is not a message that appears on the official Signal platform. Experts suspect Mike Waltz might have used an altered or unauthorized version of Signal, which might weaken data encryption or provide backdoor access. This news raises questions about the digital hygiene of Trump’s senior security officials.

Photograph Sparks Leak Concerns

The leaked photo, released by Reuters, featured Mike Waltz in the midst of a cabinet meeting with his phone screen exposed. The chat, as reported, had top-level names such as Vice President JD Vance, DNI Tulsi Gabbard, and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. The visual exposure of an encrypted group chat from one photograph has amplified worries regarding internal message leaks.

Past Blunder Resurfaces

Mike Waltz previously included an Atlantic reporter in a Signal channel that talked about a US attack on Houthi positions in Yemen. While he acknowledged his error, the gaffe triggered legal discussion regarding how such messages should be categorized and archived. A court eventually directed the Trump staff to save all relevant Signal conversations for legal review.

White House Shields Use of App

White House Communications Director Steven Cheung weighed in on the controversy on X. “Signal is an authorized app that gets installed on our government phones,” he posted. Even with this explanation, experts contend that the use of unofficial or altered versions might invalidate the app’s end-to-end encryption guarantee.

Growing Problem of Digital Governance

The Mike Waltz scenario unmasks a more profound problem: the absence of uniform digital control within Trump’s inner circle. With encrypted apps becoming critical to internal communication, their abuse—or worse, usage of unauthorized versions—can imperil national security. The US government does not have an open process for app vetting and safe use, particularly in politically charged environments.

The Trump administration’s use of Signal, having faced prior scandals, is now hit with another setback. Waltz’s utilization of an unauthorized version indicates not merely human fallibility but organizational neglect.