High-Level Impersonation Scheme Alarms Congress and White House
In a rapidly escalating cybersecurity scandal, the FBI and White House are investigating a disturbing impersonation scam involving White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles. According to a Wall Street Journal report, prominent Republican lawmakers, governors, and top business leaders have received fake texts and AI-generated voice messages that convincingly mimic Wiles — including some containing sensitive political requests.
The FBI has confirmed the existence of the operation and warned that AI-generated vishing (voice phishing) and smishing (text phishing) are being used to impersonate senior U.S. officials, marking one of the most sophisticated digital impersonation campaigns ever seen targeting the U.S. political class.
The Target: Susie Wiles, Trump’s Trusted Inner Circle Ally
Susie Wiles, a longtime confidante and top aide to President Donald Trump, reportedly had her personal contact data breached. The impersonators then used AI voice cloning technology to send false messages in her voice — some of which requested sensitive political information, including potential pardon lists for President Trump.
While none of the messages came from her actual number, several recipients initially responded, believing the communications were authentic. It wasn’t until discrepancies in language, behavior, and political knowledge arose that red flags were raised.
Who Was Targeted?
The Journal reports that the scam has reached:
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Sitting U.S. Senators
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State Governors
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Senior business executives
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Other well-known political figures
Some members of Congress were informed directly of the impersonation threat after they responded to initial messages from the scammer.
FBI and White House Respond
The FBI and White House have issued formal responses:
“The FBI takes all threats against the President, his staff, and our cybersecurity with the utmost seriousness,” said FBI Director Kash Patel, confirming the investigation remains active.
A White House spokesperson added, “This matter continues to be investigated. The cybersecurity of all staff is a top priority.”
Wiles has reached out personally to apologize to those affected, emphasizing that any suspicious message or call claiming to be from her should be disregarded.
No Foreign Nation Involved — Yet
Despite early fears of foreign interference, the FBI currently believes no foreign nation is behind the impersonation attack, though the motive remains unclear. Investigators suspect a domestic actor may be leveraging AI technology for political manipulation or information gathering.
Growing Threat of AI Impersonation
This case is part of a larger trend. Earlier in May, the FBI issued a national warning regarding an ongoing “malicious text and voice messaging campaign” targeting high-level officials using deepfake audio and SMS phishing. These tactics are becoming alarmingly realistic, making it harder for even seasoned leaders to spot the deception.
Final Thoughts
This incident is a red-alert moment for cybersecurity across the U.S. government. With AI-powered impersonation tools now capable of mimicking voices with chilling accuracy, even top-level officials are at risk of being manipulated or compromised.
The FBI investigation will likely widen, and new countermeasures may soon be introduced to protect political communications. In the meantime, Susie Wiles — and those around her — are reminding everyone: “Verify before you reply.”
