Judge Blocks Musk’s Access to U.S. Treasury Systems Over Security Concerns

A federal judge has temporarily blocked Elon Musk’s government efficiency team from accessing U.S. Treasury systems that handle trillions in payments, citing security risks. The ruling follows a lawsuit by 19 Democratic attorneys general arguing that Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) lacks legal authority to access Treasury data.

U.S. District Judge Paul Engelmayer issued the order, citing concerns over potential data exposure and heightened cybersecurity threats. New York Attorney General Letitia James praised the decision, stating it prevents Musk and his team from having unrestricted access to sensitive financial information.

Musk, in response, called the ruling "absolutely insane!" on his platform, X. He claimed that DOGE and the Treasury Department had agreed to reforms, including requiring payment rationales and updating a do-not-pay list. However, the lawsuit warns that DOGE’s involvement could disrupt essential funding for healthcare, education, and climate programs, and pose risks of political misuse.

The ruling prevents political appointees from accessing Treasury payment systems and mandates the immediate destruction of any copied data. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent reassured that Musk would not directly control the payment system, and decisions on stopping payments would remain with agencies.

Trump appointed Musk to identify government waste and fraud, a move that has sparked opposition from Democrats and advocacy groups, who argue Musk is exceeding his authority and undermining federal programs. The court’s decision imposes a temporary restriction pending a hearing on February 14.

The White House and Treasury Department have yet to comment. The case underscores growing concerns about data security and the politicization of government financial oversight.