Former CBS investigative reporter Sharyl Attkinsson has filed claims against the federal government for unauthorized and illegal spying on her laptop and computers from 2011 to 2013. She contends that unknown agents of the government violated her constitutional rights of freedom of the press and expression. CBS hired an independent computer forensic expert who placed responsibility on the federal government. (The Washington Post, January 5, 2015, by Erik Wemple)
According to Attkinson’s blog, the expert found that intruders has used “refreshed” software to remove data, steal passwords, enter the CBS computer system, and monitor Attkinsson’s audio using a Skype account. She said she had no recourse but to bring the claim since the government had not responded to inquiries about the intrusions. (Sharyl Attkisson, January 5, 2015)
Attkinsson said that she was informed that the government was attempting to identify her sources at a time that she was reporting about the FBI’s role in “Fast and Furious.” (Hollywood Reporter, January 5, 2015, by Eriq Gardner)