The US Federal Bureau of Investigation confirmed it is using polygraph tests—commonly known as “lie detector” examinations—to root out sources of unauthorised information leaks within the agency, Reuters reported.
The move, first reported by The Washington Post, signals an escalation in efforts to clamp down on internal disclosures under the administration of Republican President Donald Trump, who has prioritised curbing leaks to the media since returning to office in January.
The FBI’s public affairs office stated the measures are part of ongoing investigations to identify individuals responsible for compromising sensitive information. This aligns with a wider governmental crackdown, including a recent US Justice Department policy shift simplifying prosecutors’ ability to subpoena journalists’ records and testimony in leak cases.
Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth further intensified pressure, warning of potential prosecutions for former senior Pentagon advisers dismissed during a probe into media leaks. Hegseth indicated evidence from the inquiry would be handed to the Justice Department upon completion, leaving open the use of polygraphs.
US Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard spearheaded the drive, vowing in March to “aggressively pursue” those behind unauthorised disclosures, whom she labelled “criminals.” Last week, Gabbard revealed two intelligence community leaks had been referred to the Justice Department, with a third referral pending.
The developments underscore a hardening stance against whistleblowing and media transparency, with legal experts warning of potential chilling effects on government accountability.
