“This isn’t the Matrix”

Tech Crunch - Mar 30th, 2025
Open on Tech Crunch

Last weekend, Jeffrey Goldberg, the editor-in-chief of The Atlantic, was inadvertently added to a Signal group chat with 17 U.S. government officials discussing upcoming airstrikes in Yemen. This unexpected inclusion has sparked a debate about how phone numbers find their way into contact lists and the mechanics of messaging apps in integrating users. National security adviser Mike Waltz explained that Goldberg's number was accidentally drawn from another contact's list, while Goldberg himself argued on a Sunday talk show that phone numbers don't simply 'get sucked in,' suggesting a more deliberate addition. Meanwhile, Signal's president, Meredith Whittaker, has not directly addressed this security breach but has highlighted the importance of understanding secure messaging's nuances.

The incident underlines critical concerns about digital security and privacy, especially within governmental communications. It raises questions about protocol lapses and the potential vulnerabilities in using commercial messaging apps for sensitive discussions. Signal, long hailed as a gold standard for secure messaging, now finds itself in a spotlight where its security assurances are scrutinized. This episode could prompt a reevaluation of digital communication strategies within the government, influencing both policy and trust in encrypted platforms. As more eyes turn to Signal, the company must navigate the challenge of maintaining its reputation while addressing newfound scrutiny.

Story submitted by Fairstory

RATING

5.4
Moderately Fair
Read with skepticism

The article presents a timely and interesting incident involving a high-profile journalist and government officials discussing sensitive matters on a secure messaging app. While the story is clear and engages with significant public interest topics such as digital privacy and secure communications, it lacks depth in its analysis and sourcing. The limited range of perspectives and absence of technical explanations reduce its overall accuracy and balance. Greater transparency and inclusion of expert opinions would enhance the article's credibility and impact. Despite these shortcomings, the story effectively highlights important issues related to secure communications and national security.

RATING DETAILS

6
Accuracy

The story presents several factual claims that need verification, such as Jeffrey Goldberg being added to a Signal group chat with U.S. government officials and the explanation provided by National Security Adviser Mike Waltz. The claim that Goldberg's number was 'sucked in' from another contact is contentious and requires further evidence. Goldberg's rebuttal that his number was already in Waltz's phone adds another layer needing confirmation. The story does not provide direct evidence or sources to substantiate these claims, reducing its overall accuracy. Additionally, Signal's president Meredith Whittaker's general comments about the app's security do not directly address the incident, leaving certain facts unverified.

5
Balance

The story primarily presents two perspectives: Jeffrey Goldberg's and the explanation from Mike Waltz. While it includes Goldberg's pushback against Waltz's claim, it lacks a broader range of viewpoints, such as insights from independent security experts or additional government sources. This limited perspective may create an imbalance, as the story does not explore alternative explanations or delve into the potential implications of the incident on national security. The omission of a direct response from Signal regarding the specific incident also contributes to a lack of balance.

7
Clarity

The article is generally clear in its presentation of the incident and the main claims involved. The language is straightforward, and the structure allows readers to follow the sequence of events easily. However, the lack of detailed explanations about the technical aspects of the Signal app and the absence of broader context may leave some readers with unanswered questions. Improving clarity by providing more background information and technical details would enhance the reader's understanding.

4
Source quality

The article relies on statements from Jeffrey Goldberg and Mike Waltz, both of whom have direct involvement in the incident, which may introduce bias. The lack of independent sources or expert commentary on the technical aspects of the Signal app's security features weakens the credibility of the reporting. The story would benefit from sourcing information from cybersecurity experts or official statements from Signal to provide a more comprehensive and reliable account.

5
Transparency

The story does not provide much context or background information about how phone numbers are typically added to Signal group chats or the technical aspects of the app's security. It lacks an explanation of the methodology used to verify the claims made by Goldberg and Waltz. Additionally, there is no disclosure of potential conflicts of interest or biases from the sources quoted. Greater transparency in these areas would enhance the story's credibility and help readers understand the basis of the claims.

Sources

  1. https://www.cbsnews.com/news/israeli-officials-signal-texts-exposed-intelligence-sources-say/