The FBI is investigating a sophisticated impersonation scheme targeting White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles. In recent weeks, senators, governors, and business executives received texts and calls from someone posing as Wiles, requesting sensitive information and even cash transfers. Some recipients reported hearing a voice resembling Wiles, suggesting the use of AI-generated deepfake audio.
The impersonator appears to have accessed contacts from Wiles’s personal cellphone, though her government-issued device remains secure. The messages often contained grammatical errors and uncharacteristically formal language, raising suspicions among recipients. In one instance, a legislator was asked to compile a list of potential presidential pardon candidates.
FBI Director Kash Patel emphasized the seriousness of the threat, stating, “Safeguarding our administration officials’ ability to securely communicate to accomplish the president’s mission is a top priority.” The bureau has ruled out foreign state involvement but continues to investigate the source and motive behind the breach.
This incident follows previous cybersecurity concerns involving Wiles. In 2024, Iranian hackers targeted her email account during President Trump’s campaign, leading to the theft of sensitive documents.
The breach underscores the growing threat of AI-driven impersonation tactics and highlights the need for robust cybersecurity measures to protect high-ranking officials and their communications.
