Federal authorities have pinpointed the individual behind a bizarre cyberattack that broadcast an AI-generated video of President Donald Trump kissing Elon Musk’s feet across Department of Housing and Urban Development screens. The incident unfolded Monday morning as staff returned to the Washington D.C. headquarters following a Trump administration order banning remote work. Officials are now warning that legal consequences are on the table for the hacker who exploited agency systems to air the footage captioned “Long Live the Real King.”
The breach occurred on February 24 when the nineteen-second video looped for nearly five minutes on cafeteria televisions. Staff reportedly had to unplug the screens manually since they lacked immediate control over the hacked system. A HUD spokesperson called it a wasteful misuse of taxpayer resources and vowed action against those responsible.
Sources familiar with the investigation say the hacker’s identity emerged after tracing the video to a post on X from the prior week. Federal cybersecurity teams worked swiftly to confirm the culprit behind what some call a politically charged prank. The incident has sparked debates over vulnerabilities in government networks amid rising concerns about deepfake technology.
The video depicted Trump caressing Musk’s feet in an exaggerated display likely meant to mock their close alliance. Musk heads the Department of Government Efficiency which is auditing HUD among other agencies for cost-cutting measures. Public reaction has ranged from amusement to outrage with many questioning security protocols at federal facilities.
Legal experts suggest the hacker could face charges like unauthorized access to government systems or even defamation depending on the case’s scope. Prosecutors are exploring all options as they assess the breach’s impact on agency operations. The Justice Department has remained tight-lipped but promised a thorough review of the event.
This cyberattack comes as Musk’s influence in the Trump administration grows through his DOGE role. Critics argue his unelected power raises oversight issues while supporters praise his push to slash wasteful spending. The video’s timing aligns with tensions over DOGE’s aggressive reforms including a reported plan to halve HUD’s workforce.
Some speculate the hack was a protest against Musk’s expanding reach into federal affairs. Polls show Americans are split with 42 percent backing DOGE’s mission and 53 percent opposing it per a recent Reuters survey. The administration has yet to comment directly though Trump has previously lauded Musk’s efforts.
Authorities aim to bolster cybersecurity measures following this embarrassment to a key agency. The incident underscores the risks of AI tools that can create convincing fakes with ease. As the investigation unfolds officials warn that such stunts could erode trust in government institutions if left unchecked.
Coverage Details
| Total News Sources | 29 |
| Left | 7 |
| Right | 10 |
| Center | 8 |
| Unrated | 4 |
| Bias Distribution | 34% Right |
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