FBI Hack Wiped 100 Terabytes of Epstein Investigation Data

Sworn statement reveals massive data loss from 2023 cybersecurity breach

Published on Mar. 7, 2026

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According to a sworn declaration from FBI Special Agent Aaron Spivack, a 2023 cyber intrusion into the Bureau's New York Field Office network led to the loss of approximately 500 terabytes of data related to the Jeffrey Epstein investigation, with around 100 terabytes permanently unrecoverable. The breach occurred on Super Bowl Sunday and went undetected until the following day, when Spivack discovered the compromise while logging into a forensic workstation.

Why it matters

The Epstein investigation has been plagued by concerns about missing evidence and a lack of transparency. This revelation about the massive data loss raises further questions about the thoroughness of the probe and whether crucial information was permanently destroyed, hampering efforts to fully understand Epstein's criminal network and activities.

The details

Spivack's declaration states that the intrusion exposed vulnerabilities in the FBI's internal systems, including a critical security role that had been left vacant. The breach allowed outside actors to access the network and wipe a substantial portion of the Epstein investigation files, which included approximately 500 terabytes of stored information. Of that total, around 100 terabytes could not be recovered.

  • The breach occurred on Super Bowl Sunday in 2023.
  • Spivack discovered the compromise the following day, on Monday.

The players

Aaron Spivack

An FBI Special Agent who was serving on a Hybrid Domestic Terrorism and Child Exploitation squad at the time of the breach.

Jeffrey Epstein

The late financier who was the subject of a high-profile investigation into sex trafficking and abuse.

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What they’re saying

“The intrusion happened on Super Bowl Sunday of 2023 and I discovered it the very next day; on Monday.”

— Aaron Spivack, FBI Special Agent

What’s next

The FBI is conducting an internal investigation into the cybersecurity breach and the loss of Epstein investigation data.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the critical importance of robust cybersecurity measures and the need for thorough oversight to prevent the loss of crucial evidence in high-profile criminal investigations. The disappearance of such a vast trove of Epstein-related data raises serious concerns about the completeness of the investigation and the ability to hold all responsible parties accountable.