What Happens When Risk Protocols Fail - Lessons from the Signal App Incident
When BBC News investigated a recent national security communications breach, they reached out to Wheelhouse Advisors for expert analysis. The incident highlighted a growing risk not just for governments—but for every organization managing sensitive information in a digital world.
When Convenience Undermines Control
The Signal app is well-known for its encryption, but even encrypted tools can become vulnerabilities if used outside appropriate governance frameworks. In this case, members of a U.S. national security team reportedly used a Signal group chat to discuss pending military actions—while accidentally including a journalist.
Here’s what we told the BBC:
“Something of this sensitive nature should really require some very strict protocols in terms of communications. The channels that are generally used for communications within government systems are monitored and well-secured from a usage standpoint.”
This wasn’t just a policy failure—it was a risk management failure. And its implications stretch far beyond Washington.
Source: Wheelhouse Advisors
Lessons for Public and Private Sector Leaders
Every enterprise faces a similar dilemma: how to balance speed, agility, and convenience with secure communication practices. Based on my analysis of the Signal incident, here are three enduring lessons for leaders:
Protocols Must Be Enforced, Not Just Documented
Too many organizations have “shadow IT” environments—unofficial apps and tools used for critical discussions. Secure communications policies must be backed by monitoring systems, device management, and access controls.Human Error Is the Weakest Link
The accidental inclusion of a journalist in a private group chat is a textbook example of operational risk. Protocols should account for missteps and have systems that prevent escalation or exposure.Trust and Reputation Are Strategic Assets
When secure communications fail, it’s not just data at risk—it’s confidence. Partners, regulators, and stakeholders may question your risk posture. That perception can have real, strategic consequences.
From Incident to Strategy
At Wheelhouse Advisors, we help organizations embed secure communication protocols into broader Integrated Risk Management (IRM) frameworks. Our services include:
Secure communications assessments
Governance and policy design
Real-time risk monitoring and alerting
Risk culture and protocol alignment
IRM isn’t just about technology—it’s about enabling resilient decision-making. This incident shows why secure communications must be part of the risk equation from day one.
Final Thoughts
Risk protocols are not bureaucratic hurdles. They are strategic guardrails. When they fail—whether through negligence, oversight, or expedience—consequences are not just operational. They are reputational, legal, and often irreversible.
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Need to assess your organization’s communication risk posture?
Wheelhouse Advisors helps clients integrate secure protocol management into their broader IRM strategies.
Sources:
“Why is it a problem if Yemen strike plans shared on Signal?,” Lily Jamali & Max Matza & Kayla Epstein, BBC News, March 25, 2025.
