Fake DOD memo about ‘compromised’ apps shows swift spread of deceptive messaging

A purported U.S. Cyber Command memo claiming that multiple apps were “compromised” and could be revealing servicemembers’ locations is fake, a DOD official confirmed to Defense One. 

“The command did not issue messages to U.S. service members to turn off location services on their electronic devices and did not issue messages that applications had been compromised,” the official wrote. “Due to operational security concerns, U.S. Cyber Command does not comment nor discuss cyber intelligence, plans, operations, capabilities or effects.”

The fake message claimed that Uber, Snapchat, and Talabat — a Middle East food delivery service — were compromised and could reveal the location of service members. Some versions circulated also appear to say that locations of service members within the continental U.S. were also compromised. 

Uber late Sunday said there were no indications of compromise. A Snapchat spokesperson echoed that sentiment. Talabat did not return a request for comment by publishing time. 

The message began circulating in military service member chats, social media groups on Sunday evening, one day after the United States and Israel began attacking Iran. It was also shared in non-public Defense Department channels.

Some servicemembers familiar with standard military communications and dissemination protocols were skeptical of the message, another official told Defense One. But its wide dissemination made it difficult to initially ascertain its veracity. 

The message was just part of a wave of false information that flooded social media platforms after the bombing began. The episode highlights the speed at which inauthentic information can gain traction during active conflict, especially when it reaches those serving in the military. 

Iran has been known to generate and amplify misinformation and disinformation to sow confusion and chaos. It’s not clear at this time whether this particular memo is tied to Iran. 

Thomas Novelly contributed to this report.

Editor’s note: This article has been updated to better clarify the services offered by Talabat.