US cyber agency chief Madhu Gottumukkala under scrutiny for uploading sensitive files to ChatGPT
Washington: Dr. Madhu Gottumukkala, the acting head of the United States Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), is facing scrutiny after reportedly uploading sensitive government documents to the public version of ChatGPT, triggering automated security alerts and an internal review.
According to a report by Politico, Gottumukkala uploaded documents related to government contracts and cybersecurity matters during the summer of 2025 for official work purposes. While the documents were not classified, they were marked “For Official Use Only” (FOUO), meaning they were not intended for public disclosure.
Officials from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) told Politico that the uploads activated internal safeguards designed to flag the sharing of protected government material on public platforms. The incident prompted an internal review to determine whether any sensitive information may have been exposed.
The development has drawn attention because CISA is the federal agency responsible for protecting US government networks from advanced cyber threats, including those believed to be backed by foreign states such as Russia and China.
Who Is Madhu Gottumukkala?
Dr. Madhu Gottumukkala, who is of Indian origin, currently serves as the acting director of CISA. He holds a PhD in Information Systems from Dakota State University, an MBA in Engineering and Technology Management from the University of Dallas, an MS in Computer Science from the University of Texas at Arlington, and a Bachelor of Engineering in Electronics and Communication Engineering from Andhra University.
What triggered the ChatGPT security concern?
The controversy centres on the use of ChatGPT, a public artificial intelligence platform developed by OpenAI. Information entered into the public version of the tool may be stored and used to improve the system, raising concerns about whether government-related data could have been inadvertently retained or exposed.
Although the materials uploaded were not classified, officials emphasised that FOUO documents are still considered sensitive and subject to strict handling protocols.
CISA’s response
CISA sought to play down concerns surrounding the incident. In an email response to Politico, agency spokesperson Marci McCarthy said Gottumukkala had official permission to use ChatGPT under specific DHS safeguards.
“Acting Director Dr. Madhu Gottumukkala last used ChatGPT in mid-July 2025 under an authorised temporary exception,” McCarthy said, adding that CISA’s standard policy remains to block access to ChatGPT unless a formal exception is granted.
The issue has attracted added attention due to previous reports involving Gottumukkala. Politico had earlier reported that several CISA employees were placed on leave after Gottumukkala allegedly failed a polygraph test that he had supported introducing. Gottumukkala has disputed that account and told lawmakers that he did not agree with that characterisation.
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Mizoram observes Good Friday with solemn devotion
Aizawl (PTI): Good Friday was observed across Christian-majority Mizoram with deep religious fervour as devotees gathered to commemorate the crucifixion of Jesus Christ.
Governor Vijay Kumar Singh and Chief Minister Lalduhoma extended their greetings on the occasion of Good Friday.
"Wishing you a peaceful and blessed Good Friday. May this sacred day deepen your faith, fill your heart with abundant grace, and strengthen your spirit. May the divine love and mercy surround you and your loved ones always," Singh said.
Taking to Facebook, Lalduhoma said, "I wish all churches observing the anniversary of the death of Lord Jesus Christ (Good Friday) a happy and joyful time."
The observance began on Thursday evening as local churches convened for special services to administer Holy Communion. This sacrament honours the commandment of Jesus, who instructed his disciples to perform the rite on the eve of his death.
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Also known as the Lord's Supper, the ritual symbolises the body and blood of Christ sacrificed for humanity, signifying a 'New Covenant' that portrays Jesus as the sacrificial lamb.
On Friday, churches of different denominations, including the Presbyterian and Baptist churches, held worship services featuring 'zaipawl' (group songs) by youth members.
Churches also organised 'Zaikhawm' (also known as Lengkhawm), a tradition of congregational singing that remains an integral part of Mizo culture during important Christian festivals, including Christmas and New Year.
The Roman Catholic community organised mass and led solemn Good Friday processions locally known as 'Kross Kawngzawh' through the streets in towns and villages.
Participants sang hymns and preached the Gospel, reflecting the core belief that Christ's sacrifice redeems humanity from sin.
A few minor churches in some villages marked the occasion with traditional community feasts (Ruai) as part of the celebration.
As a public holiday, government offices, educational institutions, and commercial banks remained closed on Friday.
Good Friday observance will be followed by Easter Sunday celebration on April 5 to commemorate the resurrection of Christ.
