In a concerning security breach, Rishi Sunak’s personal mobile number has been exposed online, raising fresh questions about the safety of government officials’ private information. The Sun can confirm that the leaked number is the same one Mr. Sunak has used for many years, including during his tenure as Chancellor and the leadership election last year. This breach comes roughly two and a half years after Boris Johnson was compelled to change his mobile number due to a similar online threat while in office.
The leak has brought the security of government officials’ personal information back into the spotlight. Although it has been reported that Mr. Sunak received a new, separate number when he assumed office a year ago, the online video that surfaced on Sunday indicates that his long-standing number remains in operation.
The audio clip, published by social media pranksters, not only revealed the personal mobile number but also featured the phone ringing and the Prime Minister’s answerphone message responding. The breach has once again highlighted the vulnerability of private information to online threats, with the potential for misuse by malicious actors.
Last month, Rishi Sunak encountered a different issue tied to his mobile number when he explained his inability to provide certain WhatsApp messages to the Covid inquiry. He cited the reason as not having backed up the messages after changing phones multiple times.
Despite this disconcerting breach, Downing Street has refrained from commenting on the ongoing security issues, leaving many to wonder about the steps and measures necessary to safeguard government officials’ personal information. The breach serves as a reminder of the ever-present cybersecurity challenges faced by public figures in the digital age.