Bluesky is actively blocking links to a massive leak containing personal data of over 41,000 Department of Homeland Security employees and contractors, flagging the content as "malicious."
The leaked files, which include sensitive details like email addresses and phone numbers, were shared "without their authorization," according to Bluesky. The company stated that it chose to block the links rather than remove individual posts to ensure public discussion and broader access to related reporting and commentary remain unrestricted. This action is in line with Bluesky's community guidelines, which prohibit the sharing of personal contact information.
The DHS records, released by the nonprofit Distributed Denial of Secrets (DDoSecrets), reportedly detail employee and contractor names, contact information, and affiliations with internal groups, some linked to surveillance operations. A WIRED investigation suggests the data offers insights into the DHS's organizational structure and potentially access to specific technologies.
Users attempting to access the archive via Bluesky's platform encounter a "Blocked Link" page, citing the URL as "malicious" for user safety. Bluesky has not disclosed whether the block was automatic or prompted by a government request. Notably, the DDoSecrets homepage remains accessible, and some third-party Bluesky apps do not issue warnings for these links.
Bluesky, which originated as a Twitter project before becoming an independent entity, utilizes a decentralized moderation approach. While its guidelines protect factual reporting on government transparency, they also forbid the sharing of private information. The company, now led by Toni Schneider, has seen significant user growth since its public launch in February 2024.
DDoSecrets co-founder Emma Best commented that social media platforms have previously mislabeled their site and restricted access to publications, citing Twitter's suspension of their account in 2020 following the BlueLeaks publication. Best believes that while tech platforms may face government pressure, they cannot ultimately prevent information from spreading.
The archive, named "Icepick," was reportedly provided to DDoSecrets and journalist maia arson crimew by a group called the Department of Peace. A search website created by crimew for the records is also blocked by Bluesky. In contrast, X's Grok chatbot has reportedly directed users to the Icepick website, describing it as a searchable tool.
