“Literally no one seems to know anything about this” — Microsoft used China-based engineers to maintain DoD systems with high impact data

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For nearly a decade, Microsoft employed Chinese engineers to manage U.S. Defense Department’s computer systems. These engineers were supervised by “digital chaperones,” yet, surprisingly, some government officials remained oblivious to this arrangement.

Many individuals knowledgeable about the employment of digital escorts cautioned the government regarding the possible dangers stemming from this system. One reason for the hazards was that these digital escorts frequently lacked the necessary technical skills to effectively carry out their duties.

The data was disclosed by ProPublica. They conducted interviews with multiple individuals connected to the system, as well as a retired Chief Information Officer from the Department of Defense, and a previous high-ranking official from both the CIA and NSA.

We’re trusting that what they’re doing isn’t malicious, but we really can’t tell.”

Unnamed digital escort

Digital aides are utilized by Microsoft to manage confidential information for the U.S. government, particularly for data categorized as having “high importance,” which is just short of being classified.

Important data is often found in law enforcement, emergency services, financial, health, and other systems, as any disruption to their confidentiality, integrity, or accessibility can lead to significant or disastrous consequences for an organization’s functionality, resources, or people, according to the federal administration.

As a bystander, I’ve noticed that FedRAMP has established a High Baseline specifically tailored to safeguard the government’s most delicate, unclassified data within cloud computing ecosystems. This encompasses information that pertains to life-threatening situations and potential financial devastation.

In contrast to the delicacy of the information involved, these digital assistants seemed deficient in the necessary technical abilities, like programming skills. An investigation by ProPublica found that a majority of these escorts were underpaid, barely earning above minimum wage, and frequently held less qualifications than the professionals they supervised.

One anonymous source told ProPublica, “We hope their actions aren’t harmful, but it’s hard to say for certain.

Who knew about digital escorts?

For nearly ten years, the digital escort service had remained relatively unnoticed, even among various government departments. The subject has only been brought to light in a public forum for the first time through an article published by ProPublica.

It’s possible that even top government officials, including John Sherman (former head of IT for the Department of Defense), weren’t aware of the application of digital escorts. John himself admitted, “I wish I had known about this.

Microsoft informed ProPublica that they divulged details about their escrow system to the federal authorities. However, various officials shared with the publication that they were unaware of such a system.

Deven King, a representative of the Defense Information Systems Agency, stated, “It appears that everyone is in the dark regarding this matter, leaving me uncertain about what steps to take next.

According to the Office of the Director of National Intelligence, China and businesses with roots in China are perceived as potential cyber threats to the U.S. government.

In response to a cyber attack, a panel appointed by President Biden in 2023 scrutinized Microsoft following an intrusion into the email accounts of around two dozen government agencies by a hacking group from China.

Discussions about China and entities linked to it can have far-reaching impacts, encompassing everything from national policies to possibilities like the sale of TikTok.

Microsoft confirms use of digital escorts

In a recent update, Microsoft’s Head of Communication, Frank Shaw, validated the deployment of digital escorts and revealed modifications in their approach to assisting the U.S. government, as detailed on platform X.

To address recent worries about overseas engineers managed by the U.S., Microsoft has adjusted its service offerings for government clients handled by the U.S. administration. This adjustment aims to ensure that no engineering teams based in China will be offering technical support for Department of Defense (DoD) cloud services and related projects.

As a tech enthusiast, I’m dedicated to ensuring the highest level of security for the US government. This involves collaborating closely with our national security allies to continually assess and refine our security measures whenever necessary.

According to a representative from Microsoft, the company follows the rules and procedures set by the U.S. Government when conducting its operations.

Shaw clarified that Microsoft is discontinuing the practice of deploying China-based technical support teams for the Department of Defense’s cloud and associated services.

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2025-07-22 15:39