US News

FBI investigates reported cyber breach of its recruitment site after extortion attempt

The FBI is reviewing potential unauthorized access to its job portal following claims by hacking group ShinyHunters.

Updated Sep 23, 2026 · 19:03 UTC3 reports

The short version

The FBI is investigating a potential breach of its main application website, FBIjobs.gov, which remained offline Wednesday morning.[The Guardian · ABC News · ABC News]
The hacking group ShinyHunters claimed responsibility, asserting it compromised sensitive data on nearly all FBI agents and job applicants.[The Guardian · ABC News]
ShinyHunters gave the bureau one week to remove a May public service announcement labeling the group cyber criminals or face consequences.[The Guardian · ABC News]
The FBI confirmed it is assessing claims of unauthorized activity, though officials have not verified the hackers' assertions.[The Guardian · ABC News · ABC News]

The FBI is investigating a potential cyber incident involving its hiring portal, FBIjobs.gov.[The Guardian · ABC News · ABC News]
The portal FBIjobs.gov remained offline Wednesday morning.[The Guardian · ABC News]
The hacking entity ShinyHunters asserted responsibility and claimed to hold sensitive details regarding applicants and agents.[The Guardian · ABC News]
ShinyHunters demanded the retracting of a May advisory that categorized the group as a cyber crime organization.[The Guardian · ABC News]

The claims of compromised agent and applicant records made by ShinyHunters have not been independently or officially verified.[The Guardian · ABC News]
The full scope of data accessed and the total number of affected individuals remain unknown as investigation continues.[ABC News]

Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.