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Secret Service laptop with ‘sensitive’ files stolen in New York City

The laptop does not contain any classified information, the Secret Service says.

 

Dell Cameron

Tech

Posted on Mar 17, 2017   Updated on May 24, 2021, 8:24 pm CDT

A U.S. Secret Service laptop containing sensitive information has been stolen, the law enforcement agency said Friday.

The Secret Service said the agency-issued laptop was taken in New York City. The laptop uses “multiple layers of security, including full disk encryption,” the agency said, taking care to note that the device is not permitted to contain classified information.

CBS News reports that laptop—reportedly stolen from an agent’s vehicle—held sensitive files on President Donald Trump and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, as well as important documents about Pope Francis. CNN reports that it also contains Trump Tower floor plans and evacuation routes, and one source described it as a compromise of national security. The Secret Service, however, would not comment on the laptop’s contents.

“An investigation is ongoing and the Secret Service is withholding additional comment until the facts are gathered,” said the agency, which is charged with the protection of important executive officials, including the president and his family.

An investigation into the theft is currently underway. The Secret Service has asked anyone with knowledge of the crime to contact the New York Police Department.

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*First Published: Mar 17, 2017, 1:48 pm CDT