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WHITE HOUSE REDESIGN OF FEDERAL SITES RAISES SURVEILLANCE CONCERNS

DEV DESK1 MIN READ
MON, JUN 29, 2026

■ AI-SUMMARIZED FROM 1 SOURCE ▸ TIMELINE

The National Design Studio, led by veterans from Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency, has quietly rebuilt sensitive federal websites while installing visitor-tracking software that critics say may violate federal law.

The White House office restructured websites handling passport applications, voter registration, prescription-drug pricing, and children's savings accounts. Security experts flagged the addition of tracking software on these platforms as potentially breaching privacy regulations. Critics argue the changes erode public trust in government digital infrastructure. "It's dangerous and it's going to erode trust," according to privacy advocates reviewing the modifications. The redesign raises questions about data collection practices on platforms handling sensitive citizen information. Federal law imposes strict requirements on government websites regarding user privacy and data handling. The National Design Studio has not publicly disclosed details about the tracking implementation or its justification. The White House has not responded to inquiries about compliance with federal privacy standards. This development occurs amid broader scrutiny of government efficiency initiatives and their impact on digital security and citizen privacy.

■ SOURCES

The Guardian — Technology

■ SUMMARY WRITTEN BY AI FROM THE LINKS ABOVE

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