Ohio AG Warns Public Officials Against Using Self-Deleting Messages

Attorney General Dave Yost says apps like Signal and WhatsApp violate public records laws

Mar. 16, 2026 at 6:50pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost has released the 2026 edition of the Ohio Sunshine Laws manual, warning public officials against using messaging apps with self-deleting functions like Signal, WhatsApp, and Snapchat when conducting government business. Yost says these apps can prevent required record retention under Ohio's public records laws, and their use could lead to violations and damage public trust.

Why it matters

The use of self-deleting messaging apps by public officials raises concerns about government transparency and accountability. Ohio's public records laws are intended to ensure the public has access to information about how their government operates, and the use of disappearing messages could undermine those laws.

The details

In the new Yellow Book manual, Yost advises officials to avoid platforms that automatically erase messages after they are viewed or after a set period. He cites a recent case involving two members of the State Teachers Retirement System Board who were found to have violated their fiduciary duties by secretly discussing a $65 billion investment outside normal board procedures. Yost says such misconduct 'undermines public trust and underscores the consequences of secrecy in government'.

  • The 2026 edition of the Ohio Sunshine Laws manual was released on March 16, 2026.
  • Sunshine Week, which highlights the importance of government transparency, is held annually during the week of March 16.

The players

Dave Yost

The Attorney General of Ohio who released the 2026 edition of the Ohio Sunshine Laws manual and warned public officials against using self-deleting messaging apps.

Rudy Fichtenbaum

The Chairman of the State Teachers Retirement System (STRS) Board who was found to have violated his fiduciary duties by secretly discussing a $65 billion investment outside normal board procedures.

Wade Steen

A former member of the State Teachers Retirement System (STRS) Board who was found to have violated his fiduciary duties by secretly discussing a $65 billion investment outside normal board procedures.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Self-destructing messages are for movie characters, not public officials. Using disappearing messages will only self-destruct your career and your credibility.”

— Dave Yost, Ohio Attorney General (Attorney General's Office)

What’s next

The Attorney General's Public Records Unit offers free sunshine laws training, as does the Ohio Auditor of State's Office. Ohio law requires public officials or their designees to complete the training at least once per elected term.

The takeaway

This case highlights the importance of government transparency and the need for public officials to use communication methods that comply with public records laws. The use of self-deleting messaging apps undermines public trust and can have serious consequences for officials who engage in secretive behavior.