The top U.S. cyber defense agency, CISA, reversed a decision. It had planned to stop posting alerts on its website. This reversal occurred on Tuesday, May 13, 2025. Just 24 hours earlier, CISA announced the change. It intended to favor the X social media platform. CISA said its earlier announcement caused some confusion. The initial plan aimed to enhance user experience. CISA has now paused these changes. It will reassess how best to communicate.
CISA has historically urged Americans to use government websites. This was for reliable information on various critical issues. The agency issued joint advisories with the FBI. These often warned about foreign disinformation. They always directed the public to official .gov sources. An anonymous CISA staffer voiced concerns. The staffer feared the move made CISA seem less active. This was amid potential significant budget cuts. The initial announcement only listed CISA’s X account.
If CISA heavily relies on X, it follows other agencies. These agencies use Elon Musk’s social media platform. The Social Security Administration also plans this shift. CISA’s initial plan sparked public access concerns. This involved information on zero-days and active threats. CISA already faces bipartisan concern over its capabilities. It might lose nearly one-third of its workforce. A $500 million budget cut has been proposed. Acting director Bridget Bean addressed Congress about efficiency.
In the past month, CISA’s webpage shared many alerts. These included industrial control systems and new exploited vulnerabilities. It also posted joint guidance with the FBI. A CISA spokesperson said the reversal was paused. This is to reassess the best communication strategy. The spokesperson declined to comment further. They did not clarify CISA’s stance on using private platforms. It is unclear if .gov sites remain primary sources.
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