US President Donald Trump has ordered the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) to compile and send an unclassified email listing all employees who have been with the agency for two years or less. This move is part of his effort to shrink the federal workforce.
The list contains first names and initials of last names of new hires. Since they are still on probation, they can be dismissed more easily.
Many of these employees were recently recruited as analysts and operators to focus on China-related intelligence. Their identities are typically highly protected due to the constant threat of cyberattacks from foreign hackers.
The release of these names in an unclassified format has intelligence experts all worried. Even with only first names and initials, many recruits have uncommon names, making it easier to cross-reference their identities using public databases. Information from driver’s licenses, vehicle registrations, social media, and university records could help foreign intelligence services create a complete list of CIA operatives. This could jeopardise their safety and end their careers before they even begin.
The order comes amid broader changes at the CIA. Earlier this week, the agency announced buyouts for employees as part of another effort to cut staff. The decision is seen as part of a strategy to restructure the agency.
With increasing geopolitical tensions, particularly with China, the exposure of intelligence personnel has raised serious concerns within national security circles. The impact of this directive remains to be seen, but it has already sparked fears of a potential intelligence breach.
